In 2013, Irish rugby fans were shocked when Brian O’Driscoll was dropped from the final Lions squad for the test against Australia. Despite starting the first two tests, many expected O’Driscoll to play in the decisive match. However, coach Warren Gatland surprised everyone by leaving him out.
To replace O’Driscoll, Jonathan Davies was brought in, and he recently shared on a podcast how he was caught off guard by his sudden inclusion in the team. Interestingly, Adam Ashley-Cooper, who played against the Lions in 2013, revealed that he ended up with O’Driscoll’s final Lions jersey.
After winning the second test against the Lions, Ashley-Cooper decided to swap jerseys with O’Driscoll assuming he would play the next game. However, since O’Driscoll was dropped, the jersey remained with Ashley-Cooper, who joked that he wouldn’t give it back due to a disagreement they had in 2015.
Despite the jersey being a significant piece of memorabilia, it is currently stored away in Australia, as O’Driscoll and Ashley-Cooper have had their differences over the years. This unusual situation adds another layer to the already controversial 2013 Lions series.
Looking back at this event, it’s clear that the decisions made during the 2013 Lions tour still resonate with the players involved. The unexpected turn of events that led to O’Driscoll losing his spot in the final test against Australia continues to be a topic of discussion among rugby fans.
As we reflect on this moment in rugby history, it serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of sports and the lasting impact it can have on players, even years after the final whistle has blown. The story of O’Driscoll’s final Lions jersey, now tucked away in storage, is a symbol of the highs and lows that come with competing at the highest level of the sport.