Lions legend Brian O’Driscoll admits he never dreamed of reaching 100 caps when he began his international career.
O’Driscoll, who has already crossed the 100-cap barrier when his Lions Tests are added to his current Ireland tally, will reach a century of appearances for his country against Wales this weekend.
The triple Lions tourist is widely regarded as one of the greatest players to have graced the modern game but he insists he has never looked too far ahead when it comes to his international career.
“At the start you want to get as many caps as possible, but you never look and hope to attain 100,” said O’Driscoll, who played Test-match rugby with the Lions in 2001, 2005 and 2009.
"I’ve always approached it like the next game in a green shirt is my last.
"With that policy you can’t go far wrong. And it’s not over yet."
Numerous critics suggested that the Leinsterman’s career was on the wane prior to the start of the last season but O’Driscoll emphatically showed otherwise for club, country and Britain and Ireland’s elite.
The 31-year-old led Ireland to Grand Slam glory, Leinster to a first European crown and was again one of the stars of an enthralling Lions tour.
And while he admits that he can’t go forever, O’Driscoll has no intention of retiring just yet.
"I’m really enjoying my rugby," added O’Driscoll.
"Last year was fantastic – it makes things a lot easier when you win something that you’ve been trying to win for many years.
"That success makes you enjoy things more and you become more selfish.
"I do know there is an end line in sight so now it’s about trying to attain as much as possible in that time."
