Warren Gatland lauds O'Driscoll milestone

Wales coach Warren Gatland has paid a glowing tribute to Ireland cap centurion Brian O'Driscoll ahead of Saturday's RBS 6 Nations clash in Dublin.

The Ireland skipper will follow his team-mate John Hayes in securing membership of arguably Test rugby's most exclusive club.
O'Driscoll becomes the 13th player to reach the 100-cap landmark for their country, and is guaranteed a rapturous reception when he leads Ireland out against Wales at Croke Park.

Former Ireland coach Gatland handed O'Driscoll his international debut against Australia in Brisbane almost 11 years ago, and he has been thrilled by the Leinster centre's rise to world-great status.

Gatland, who was in charge of Ireland for 38 Tests between 1998 and 2001, also worked with O'Driscoll on last summer's British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa.

'I gave him his first cap, and it was an honour for me to be involved with him with the Lions last year to see how he has developed,' said Gatland.

'I was incredibly impressed with his leadership and his understanding of the game. He was one of the main reasons (Wales centre) Jamie Roberts ended up having such a good tour.

'He deserves all the accolades, and I will be one of the first to stand up in the coaching box on Saturday and clap him. I am absolutely delighted for him and proud I have had an association with him.

'Brian has got natural flair, is a good passer off both hands, has got a step and fantastic pace.'