Brian O’Driscoll says that "defeat is not an option" for the 2009 British & Irish Lions as they get set to launch their Castle Lager series against the world champion Springboks.
The Irish Grand Slam skipper is on his third Lions tour and wants to finally feel what it is like to be on a winning side in a series. He scored a fantastic try in a famous Lions victory on his Test debut in Australia in 2001, but then saw his side lose the next two.
In 2005, when he was captain of the Lions, he dislocated his shoulder in the opening minutes of the first Test and then saw the Lions crash 3-0 to the All Blacks.
But now the Leinster legend is back to his very best form and can’t wait to run out at the ABSA Stadium on Saturday for his fifth Lions test – and his 98th international appearance all tolled.
“This is where you want to be playing – with the best players from Britain and Ireland against the world champions. If you are a player from any of the Home Unions where else would you want to be but the ABSA Stadium on Saturday?” he said.
“Defeat is not an option. Personally, I have no interest in being part of a squad that loses the series, and I know my team mates feel the same way.
“I’ve been there and done that. Who would not want to be part of a team that creates history and does something special.
“I am not trying to put too much pressure on myself or the team. I have learned not to overcomplicate one’s approach to a big match. It usually works out best for the best.”
