O'Driscoll opts to stay in Ireland

Ireland and Leinster captain Brian O'Driscoll has signed a new contract that will keep him in Ireland at least until the end of the Rugby World Cup in 2007, it was announced today.

“My desire from the beginning of this season has always been to play for Leinster and Ireland and I am thrilled to remain within the current set up," said O'Driscoll.

"I am now looking forward to getting myself back on the field playing as soon as possible and working with the coaching staff in both Leinster and Ireland for the remainder of the season."

Philip Browne, chief executive, IRFU said: “The IRFU is delighted that Brian has pledged his immediate future to Leinster and that he will continue to play his rugby in Ireland. There is no doubting his ability at the very highest level and it is a testament to both Brian and to the current structures that are in place at both provincial and international level that he has chosen to remain in Ireland."