O'Driscoll relinquishes captaincy

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has opted to step down as Leinster skipper – adding to speculation the centre may also hand over the national armband.

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has opted to step down as Leinster skipper – adding to growing speculation that he may also hand over the national armband.

Second-row Leo Cullen has been installed as the province's new leader with O'Driscoll deciding to relinquish the role following three successful years bossing the Magners League champions.

The news comes as rumours continue to mount regarding the 2005 British and Irish Lions captain's future as leader of the national side.

O'Driscoll has skippered his country since the end of the 2003 Rugby World Cup; however, a slight drop in form over the past twelve months along with new coach Declan Kidney being instated at the helm could well spell a double handover.

And with the former Munster boss revealing at his opening press conference several weeks ago that he has been discussing this matter with the 29-year-old, likely candidates Ronan O'Gara and Paul O'Connell could well be in line for the job.