But O’Driscoll preferred to focus on Wales during Friday’s final press conference – as ever sidestepping the limelight.

“I don't see any reason to get caught up in the hype," said O'Driscoll ahead of the clash at Croke Park.

"For the moment I'm just treating it as another week and enjoying it.

"It's nice getting a lot of text messages coming in from past players and coaches. It's lovely from that point of view.

"Someone said to me '101 Test matches is more impressive than a hundred'. So maybe John Hayes should be the one that's up here."

Ireland coach Declan Kidney said it was difficult to assess O'Driscoll's contribution to Irish rugby.

"I'd probably do it a disservice," added the Ireland coach.

"He's imparted his own knowledge as he's getting older to some of the younger fellas and that's a generosity that isn't always seen on top of his performances."