O'Gara happy to compete for starting berth

Ronan O'Gara insists he is thriving off his battle with Leister's Jonathan Sexton for the Irish number 10 jersey.

The Munster legend had been relegated to second choice fly-half but strong performances in the World Cup saw him fight his way into contention for the starting position.

While both players have been instrumental in their provinces success so far this season, O’Gara claims the World Cup has given him the confidence compete with Sexton.

"I'm relaxed after the World Cup because of what had happened there," O'Gara told the Irish Independent.

"Essentially, I'd lost my place and I was doing everything possible to demonstrate that I had something to offer this team.”

With Sexton encountering kicking difficulties in New Zealand, O’Gara was repeatedly called on to keep the scoreboard ticking over, something he has done with vital scores at vital times for Munster this season, proving he is still as reliable as ever despite entering the twilight of his career.

"That's what matters. That my team knows that 'Rog can still do the business for us, whether he's starting or coming off the bench'.

"It was important for me to lay down a marker at the World Cup and that's the ultimate, so I think that gave me confidence.

"I realise exactly where I am at the minute, 34 going on 35. There's a good No 10 there, there's two good No 10s there.

"So let's have a crack off this, let's see who gets picked. If I have the value to start the game, or come on in the game, that is hugely important to me."