Captain Brian O'Driscoll has set his sights on leading Ireland to "something special" as he prepares to take charge for the 49th time.
O’Driscoll is set to captain Ireland against Canada, New Zealand and Argentina during November after new coach Declan Kidney reappointed the centre as skipper.
O'Driscoll told Irish Rugby’s website: "It's always been a huge honour for me (to be captain). With a new set-up coming in, it brings something new and Declan (Kidney) had to choose amongst a huge number of great leaders.
"Obviously I was delighted to be asked to remain on as captain for the November series and play it by ear after that.
"It's something I've really enjoyed and to be able to do it 48 times has been fantastic. Hopefully I can lead Ireland to something special."