Ireland star O'Driscoll denies plans for retirement

Ireland great Brian O'Driscoll said he had made no plans yet to call time on his career after suggesting recently this could be his "last" Six Nations.

Having indicated he could be taking part in Europe's premier rugby championship for the final time in the build-up to Ireland's opening match in Wales, the 34-year-old centre produced a superlative display in a 30-22 victory in Cardiff, setting up one try, scoring another and starring in defence.

O'Driscoll's Leinster contract expires at the end of the season and this has led to speculation that, if selected, the British and Irish Lions tour of Hong Kong and Australia in June could mark the end of his career.

Fitness, rather than any lessening desire to extend his 14-year test career, appears to be the biggest issue confronting O'Driscoll, who missed Ireland's November tests with an ankle injury. O'Driscoll, speaking ahead of Sunday's match against England in Dublin, insisted he had spoken about retirement ahead of the Wales match only because he was asked about the issue.

"I hadn't intended causing a stir. I was just being honest in answering a question," he said.

"I haven't really allowed myself to think about it. If you start thinking about retirement in six months' time you're already there. It will all evolve. The situation will unfold. I'll have to listen to my body," he added.