O’Connell, the Munster skipper who also led the British and Irish Lions in 2009, was ruled out for the rest of the RBS 6 Nations after suffering a knee injury against France.

The 32-year-old only took on the mantle in the absence of regular captain Brian O’Driscoll, who was ruled out soon after the World Cup with a shoulder injury.

It means Ireland will host Scotland on Saturday without the pair for the first time in the competition since 2001 but Kidney insists captain Best will be supported by a willing set of lieutenants.

“You never want to lose anyone to injuries in terms of leadership, but that's the way sport is. It's an opportunity now for other fellas to put their hands up,” Kidney told the Irish Independent.

“It was refreshing at training. There were a few lads starting to talk up more. They recognise the situation and they'll bring their tuppence-worth.

“If we look back and start cribbing and complaining, then we're nowhere. We're very happy with the fellas coming into it. It's everyone's chance now to show what they can do.”