New Zealand’s Conrad Smith is wary of Irish captain Brian O’Driscoll
New Zealand centre Conrad Smith insists that centre Brian O’Driscoll is still a world class player.
Smith will face the Irish captain in the Test match between Ireland and the All Blacks at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday 20 November.
O’Driscoll’s form has been questioned this season and many critics believe that the 31-year-old is no longer the player he once was.
However, the centre was the Player of the Six Nations tournament in 2009, leading Ireland to a Grand Slam and Leinster to Heineken Cup glory in 2009. His performances on the British and Lions during the summer of 2009 proved that the player was still the
best centre in world rugby.
Speaking at a press conference, Smith said, "He’s stood the test of time. When we came up here in 2008, I was being told he’s past it, but then he had that amazing year with the Lions and was back to his best. I like that in a player, that’s true quality."
O’Driscoll will be keen to return to form and lead Ireland to their first-ever victory against the All Blacks.
Smith was adamant that O’Driscoll was still one of the most dangerous players for Ireland and he backs the Irish captain to return to form again.
"I rate Brian highly. When he came to New Zealand this year, him and Gordon D’Arcy were the guys who stood out again. I just think he’s a class player, someone I’ve always enjoyed watching."
Smith also believes that the criticism on O’Driscoll has been harsh, as the forwards have not been able to give him a platform to attack from.
The All Black stated that the Irish centre was never given enough ball in a number of previous matches with New Zealand and as result, he appeared to play poorly. "He hasn’t always had an easy time of it against us, but that’s nothing to do with him."
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