O'Driscoll pens new Irish deal

Brian O'Driscoll has agreed a new deal with the IRFU and Leinster until the 2007 World Cup.

O'Driscoll had been linked with a move to France after he spoke of his interest of playing French club rugby earlier this year but has now ended speculation of an imminent switch.

On the Irish Rugby Football Union website, O'Driscoll revealed his intentions to stay in Ireland.

He said: "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.

"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."

O'Driscoll admitted that the benefit of central contracts in Ireland was a major influence in his decision, commenting: "Each country has to look after their players and get the most out of their players.

"Clubs in England are totally focused on winning their club trophies whereas it is the national team that takes precedence over everything else in Ireland.

"We are very fortunate in Ireland that we are looked after as players. We don't play when we are injured.

"I won't be playing the same number of games as the guys in England. I am sure I won't play over 30 games in a season even if I am fully fit throughout."

The British and Irish Lions skipper has been out of action since injuring his shoulder in the first Test of the June tour against New Zealand.

Chief executive of the IRFU Philip Browne 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."