Ronan O'Gara has no intention of retiring from test rugby after the World Cup, insisting he will keep fighting for his Ireland place. The Ireland outhalf appeared to suggest after the stunning 15-6 victory over Australia that his international career would come to an end after the tournament.
An emotional O’Gara was clearly disappointed not to have started against the Wallabies but said today that his comments in the post-match interview have been misinterpreted.
"On Saturday I was speaking in the context of being done with Ireland in six or seven weeks' time in terms of this World Cup," he said. "I said I'm done with Ireland in a few weeks and there are different interpretations of that.
"It was a great night, one of my best nights. I was so proud to be part of the team. From my point of view, when you set goals as a professional player everything ends with the World Cup final.
"That's where I stand at the minute. It's important for me to put an end to this because it's a distraction the team don't need. In my own head I'll reassess at the end of the World Cup. But I want to be part of this team because it's a great team at the moment.
"It's about being part of an Ireland team that will do itself justice in the competition and give the supporters at home something they deserve."
O'Gara has admitted that he has considered quitting in the past, but he insists that he is in no hurry to take the decision.
"Retirement has crossed my mind plenty of times over the last few years," he added. "There are plenty of thoughts in your head when you're disappointed but it's losers who quit when things aren't going so well for them.
"Retirement hasn't entered my head seriously in that regard. I'm a fighter and I'll keep fighting until the end. I'm not sure when that is. Playing for Ireland means so much you don't walk away from the team until it's right.
"You take advice from people you respect on that front. I'm not at that stage yet."