Brian O’Driscoll believes Sexton could play right into his 40s

Former Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll believes his former teammate and current Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton could play for Ireland at the next Rugby World Cup and even into his 40s.

Speaking on Thursday to Off The Ball, O'Driscoll explained that Sexton's drive could see him play in 40s.

“I know Johnny feels that he can get to the next World Cup and that’s only three years away, so I believe that is absolutely achievable," said O'Driscoll.

“I met him over lockdown, and he is in the best shape that I have ever seen him. Mentally he is as hungry as ever.

"He is one player who doesn’t have other focuses. He doesn’t take his eye off the ball.

“He’s not thinking about retirement, he’s just thinking about the medals he can accumulate and get to the holy grail of a World Cup semi-final with Ireland.”

O’Driscoll went on to say that Sexton is unlikely to change the style of his play which has often resulted in injuries  for the pivot.

“I think he will have to be minded. He is a guy who wants to play often but he will have to weigh that up with the little injuries he is carrying.

“There is no way that Johnny is going to change the way he tackles, change body position, change height of tackle, change head movement.

"He is now 35 years old and has done it for years. He is not changing and that is just wishful thinking.

“That’s just Johnny Sexton's game. Will he have the occasion head collision because of it? Yes, but he is not changing because that’s what made him a winner for so long.”