Paul O'Connell Forced To Retire

There are good rugby players, and there are great rugby players. Then there is a select band of elite players who have the respect of all who watch them play the game.

After that come a very very few players who transcend all that and have that inexplicable aura about them that just says LEADER. You can't see that on a TV screen, you have to be there to appreciate it. But for those players it is obvious from the moment they walk on to the pitch.

For me, PO'C is a one of these born leaders, the greatest I've seen since Buck Shelford, my all time rugby hero.

I have no doubt that Paul will continue in the game in some form, and that the game will benefit greatly from his experience. Whatever that is, I'm sure we all wish him the very best and thank him for everything he has achieved in his illustrious career. It has been a privilege for us to watch him.