As was the case with Declan Kidney and Paul McNaughton earlier in the week, Brian O’Driscoll was reluctant to become involved in a potential slanging match at today’s final press briefing. O’Driscoll preferred instead to focus on the match itself as Ireland seek to overcome Wales and claim just a second Grand Slam.
“I haven’t picked up too many newspapers this week,” was the Irish captain’s response when asked about Warren Gatland’s claim that his players disliked Ireland more than any other team, an assertion the Welsh coach has since insisted was meant purely as a compliment.
“I don’t really have anything to say about it,” added O'Driscol
Quizzed further about what Gatland might have meant, O’Driscoll added: “I have no idea, you would have to ask him (Gatland). It is a long time since I have been coached by Warren — he’s his own man.”
As for O’Driscoll’s thoughts on the Welsh players — many of whom are likely to be Lions colleagues in South Africa this summer — he was complimentary.
“I have plenty of nice things to say about them,” he said. “I have always got on well with the Welsh players. I’ve always found them easy to chat to.”
Top of O’Driscoll’s agenda is leading Ireland to a first Six Nations title — against the defending champions — and ending that painful 61-year Grand Slam wait.
“There is no need to make the situation any bigger than it is,” O’Driscoll added. “I’ve been fortunate to play against Wales a lot of times. I’ve come out on the right result a few times and lost a few.
“We will enjoy the situation. You are a professional rugby player to be involved in moments like this, those pressurised situations, a great atmosphere in one of the best stadiums in the world.
“It would mean a lot. It would be a great achievement, but words aren’t worth a huge amount at the moment. We will try and do all our chatting tomorrow, through the 80 minutes.
“It is a case of trying to beat another quality Test team. Our sole focus is on winning the game.”
Ireland coach Kidney has fond memories of the Millennium Stadium, having guided Munster to Heineken Cup glory against both Biarritz and Toulouse.
And Kidney wants his players, fellow coaches and Irish supporters to enjoy every minute of what could prove a momentous day.
He said: “We were always going to play Wales last match but to have so much involved on it adds a little bit of spice. It’s a huge privilege to be here. These are the occasions you are in sport for.
“You just want to enjoy it and that is what everyone must do. We have given ourselves a chance. We are away from home against the (Six Nations) champions in their own backyard. It doesn’t come any tougher than that.
“I am delighted for the players, they’ve worked really hard, and I know they are going to give their all tomorrow. I’ve always enjoyed watching Ireland play ever since I first saw them play on a black and white television.
“I’ve been put in a situation now where I have a job to do, the lads have a job to do and we will go about our business.”
