Writing in the Irish Independent, George Hook reflects on Ireland's decision to hand Ronan O'Gara the No.10 shirt once again.
"He had been the youngest man ever capped by his country in his sport. Now, recalled in his declining years to face the world champions, he walked to the wicket to face the fastest bowlers on the planet armed with leg pads, a pair of gloves, a bat and a piece of pink sticking-plaster on his elbow. Brian Close was 45 years old.
"Ronan O'Gara might smile wryly at being compared to an English cricketer, but he knows that ageism is rife in sport. Coaches, like ageing Lotharios in search of a new girlfriend, often promote emerging young talent at the expense of older performers with the priceless gift of experience.
"The Munster fly-half is back after twice saving his country's bacon in this year's Six Nations Championship. Yet the hero of 2011 spent a difficult summer 2010 wondering if his contract would be renewed.
"At some point a 'retirement package' with a French club must have crossed his mind. Happily in all quarters, common sense has prevailed, and the pre-eminent fly-half in Irish rugby is back in his rightful place.
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