Brian O’Driscoll ban worry after Ireland lose in Italy
BRIAN O'DRISCOLL will learn today whether he will face disciplinary action for his stamp on Simone Favaro.
O’Driscoll lifted his right leg and brought it down on to the chest of the Italy openside after 30 minutes and was sent to the sin-bin.
The incident clouded what was almost certainly O’Driscoll’s final game for Ireland, though former international team-mate Paul Wallace speculated that the centre may now delay those plans after this defeat.
It is not the way Ireland’s greatest player, who won his 125th cap and made his 60th Championship appearance yesterday, will have wanted to end his 14-year career.
Although O’Driscoll has said his future is undecided, Ireland coach Declan Kidney believes the player still has more to offer at Test level. “He was outstanding against Wales and had a good match against France. He did well today, too,” said Kidney.
Italy – Try: Venditti. Con: Orquera. Pens: Orquera (4), Garcia.
Ireland – Pens: Jackson (5).