Ireland legend Brian O'Driscoll has admitted that this year's Six Nations championship could be his last.
O'Driscoll holds the records for most test caps (119) and tries (45) for his country but recently struggled with injury problems.
"There's a strong possibility it could be my last," said O'Driscoll to BBC Sport.
"There's every chance it's my last Six Nations but I haven't really allowed myself to start thinking about finishing.
"If you start thinking about it too early, you're one foot into retirement already. I'm contracted [with the Irish Rugby Football Union] until the summer and I'll see how my body feels."
A veteran of three Lions tours, O'Driscoll is still a favourite to lead the touring side in Australia later this year.
"It would be an honour that would be too big to pass up again," added O'Driscoll.
"I got to do it once, albeit for only 25 seconds of a Test match [O'Driscoll was injured early in the first Test against New Zealand in 2005], so it would be nice to get another opportunity.
"But first things first, I've got to get myself into a position to get myself on the tour and deserve my spot."
Comments
pentwynfarm says...
What an awesome player and role model. It will be a sad day for all rugby when he hangs up his boots.
Posted 09:50 31st January 2013