12 Mar 2013

O'Driscoll in Six Nations fitness battle

7:20 am on 12 March 2013

Irelands' rugby selectors have delayed for 48 hours their team announcement for this weekend's match against Italy as they struggle with an injury crisis that threatens to deny their great centre Brian O'Driscoll a potential Six Nations farewell.

O'Driscoll suffered concussion, a lacerated ear and a dead leg in the 13-13 draw with France last weekend.

The 34-year-old's contract with the Irish Rugby Union expires later this year and he has hinted he might be retiring soon.