O'Driscoll appointed IRFU president

The Irish Rugby Football Union held its annual council meeting on Friday, where Dr John O'Driscoll was elected the 136th president of the union.

A former British & Irish Lions flanker who represented his country 26 times and made 19 appearances for the Lions across two tours, he was first capped for Ireland in 1978.

Dr O'Driscoll helped Ireland win a first Triple Crown since 1949 when he played a central role in the 1982 Five Nations competition.

He played for Stonyhurst School in Lancashire before going on to represent Liverpool St Helens, Manchester, Connacht and London Irish.

His feats on the field of play saw him elected as Irish Sportsman of the Year in 1980.

John O'Driscoll earned 26 caps for Ireland and was part of the 1982 Triple Crown winning side

After hanging up his boots, Dr O'Driscoll went on to hold coaching, selector and administrative roles.

Speaking after his election to his latest post, Dr O’Driscoll said: "It is a great honour to be elected as the 136th president of the IRFU.

"Irish rugby has given so much to me since an early age, first as a supporter, then through a wonderful playing career with London Irish, Connacht and Ireland.

"In more recent years, I have been privileged to contribute to the administration of the game alongside people utterly dedicated to its success at every level.

"I look forward to visiting clubs across the country and meeting the volunteers who are the lifeblood of the sport. Their passion, commitment and depth of involvement are vital to Ireland."

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