ODriscoll limped off in the 75th minute after sustaining the damage early in the match and immediately left the Millennium Stadium to receive treatment.

The Leinster centres midfield partner Gordon DArcy also picked up a groin problem but Ireland head coach Eddie OSullivan expects him to be fit for the Croke Park showdown next Sunday.

He said: We dont know how serious Brians injury is. He was running and felt a twinge, but was still able to run around a bit.

I dont know the extent of the damage - well know more tomorrow. Hes gone straight to rehab.

DArcy was immense today. He picked up a groin problem early in the game. Its a sign of his maturity as a player because had that happened a few years ago he might not have finished the game but today he dug very deep.

Brian did his hamstring early and was working on about 80% throughout the match and Gordon was taking a lot of the workload off him, even though he was carrying a knock himself.

I was delighted Gordon got man of the match because he had an outstanding game.

Brian also played well but the worry was if we left Brian on he might do serious damage to his hamstring that could have put him out of the rest of the championship.

Im not saying hes available for next week but theres a much better chance now that we took him off at the right time. But hes definitely a doubt.

Gordon got through the game so thats a good sign he should be available for next week. Hes had groin problems in the past but well manage the situation over the next week.

Theyve both gone back to the hotel for physio. Every minute counts in a seven-day turnaround.

Ireland started the 6 Nations as favourites but OSullivan admitted it was not a vintage opening display from his side.

Ronan OGara sealed the victory with a 71st minute try and although Ireland won the try-count 3-0 - Rory Best and ODriscoll also scored - Wales were on top for long spells.