Indeed recent reports suggested that O’Driscoll, who led Ireland to the RBS 6 Nations title back in 2009, was considering a reunion with former Leinster coach Michael Cheika, who is taking charge of New South Wales Waratahs for the 2013 season.

But despite the link between the two O’Driscoll insisted that any talk of a move Down Under was wide of the mark.

“It is certainly not on my radar at the moment,” he said.

“I don't know if I am playing on beyond June. I am contracted until then and I am enjoying it at the moment and I have no plans or desires at the moment to go over there.

“Michael hasn't been in touch and it's best to nip these things in the bud.”
And Cheika, who was in charge of Stade Francais last season, also has his doubts the 33-year-old would make the switch.

“The top players in the world like Brian would all like to come down and see how they fare here but you have to remember it is very difficult for Irish players to leave Ireland,” he said.

“When they retire, they get a big tax back-payment. He is obviously one of the highest-paid players in Ireland, so it would be a big decision for him to come here.

“But there is no doubt the thought about coming down here is with a lot of the top players over there. Whether it becomes a reality is something else.”