British and Irish Lions

Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan believes Gordon D'Arcy is in the form of his life as the Leinster centre continues to impress in the 2004 RBS 6 Nations.

D'Arcy gave a superb display during Ireland's opener against France in what was his first full international - and he delivered more of the same against Wales on Sunday, helping his side to a 36-15 victory at Lansdowne Road.

"Gordon has played the best rugby of his career over the last couple of months. He has done an excellent job of slotting into the outside-centre position for Leinster and for us. He's an exciting player," said O'Sullivan.

Lions skipper Sam Warburton says the lessons he and his Welsh colleagues learnt in Australia last summer will stand them in good stead for their return visit with Britain and Ireland's elite next month.

Tom Youngs has enjoyed a remarkable rise to the top of the British & Irish game but he won't be resting on his laurels ahead of his first Lions adventure.