The Springboks use a blitz defensive system to close down the opposition as quickly as possible and ODriscoll believes relying on pre-planned moves will achieve little.

South Africas defence is probably the most aggressive in the game, he said.

People think they play a specific format but they are very smart in that they have guys shooting out of the line.

You can never tell which one it will be so there is method to their madness as well.

Its very hard to plan a certain set of moves to break down this defence because it changes with every play.

You just have to try and make sure you dont get frustrated by defences like that. Wasps have adopted a similar style over the last few years.

You have to play whats in front of you rather than have set plays. Maybe this is when natural footballing ability comes to the fore.

Ireland coach Eddie OSullivan has named his strongest possible line-up for the autumn opener against South Africa with Jerry Flannery the only absentee through injury.

ODriscoll believes Ireland enter the series in the best possible shape and paid tribute to the structure that ensures they remain fresh for internationals.

If you look at the number of people who arent up for selection - its really only Jerry - then injury-wise we have never been in better nick for a November series, he said.

The boys are in good shape and confidence is reasonably high. Its where we want to be.

Were in a fortunate position because weve had a 10-week pre-season. Its tough when you get into week six and all you want to do is play games but that extra little bit makes a massive difference to us.

It has made a difference with how sharp and fresh the players look. Hopefully when it comes to the World Cup it will stand us in good stead.

Were also in a situation that the union controls the provinces, so when a player looks like he needs a rest they can be pulled out of games.

Thats a very fortunate situation to be in.