British & Irish Lions skipper Brian O’Driscoll has vowed to "lead from the front" – and admitted he would seek advice from predecessor Martin Johnson before departing for New Zealand.
O’Driscoll – who has led Ireland on a permanent basis since the 2003 World Cup – saw off competition from Lawrence Dallaglio and Paul O’Connell to land the most coveted job in British and Irish rugby.
The 26-year-old succeeds Johnson, Lions skipper in 1997 and 2001, in what is tough act to follow. But he is ready to look to the England great for guidance as he prepares to spearhead the challenge against All Blacks.
"I’ve played under Martin myself and have looked at the way he leads a team. I’ve always had so much respect for him. I think the most notable aspect of his captaincy was that he led by example," he said.
"He wasn’t always the biggest of speakers but when he did talk everyone listened. Actions speak louder than words and that’s the way I’ll tackle the job. I’ll lead from the front on the pitch and let my rugby do the talking.
"I’ll give Martin a call and ask him a few questions. I’ll ask how captaining the Lions differs from captaining your country. I’m sure I’ll seek advice from a number of people to see how best I can approach the job."
