Tommy O’Donnell reflects on most cherished Munster memories

Retiring Munster flanker Tommy O’Donnell says he has a ‘great collection’ of memories that allow him to hang up his boots feeling proud about his career.

33 year-old O’Donnell announced his retirement in April after a 14 year career for the men in red.

O’Donnell was named Munster player of the year in 2012 and won 13 caps for Ireland but has found game-time hard to come by in recent seasons.

“There’s lots there,” said the UL Bohemians clubman.

“Each season has its own different memories. There’s just different Munster moments that stand out from each season.

“Even though I wasn’t on the pitch to be in this stands this season for the Clermont game…there’s the Saracens games, there’s the win against Harlequins all the way back in 2012, being involved on the podium the last time we won a trophy in 2011.”

O’Donnell was also a firm favourite of Joe Schmidt and played a part in both the 2014 and 2015 Six Nations wins.

The Cahir native proved an excellent deputy to Sean O’Brien at openside flanker and understandably holds those days in the green jersey close to his heart.

“There’s loads of moments from throughout the seasons and from an individual point of view getting capped by Ireland. You know the successes with Ireland that I had, being involved with Ireland for the Six Nations wins, being named Munster player of the year back in 2012.

“There’s highs and lows and so many of them and rather than there being one standout moment there’s a great collection of moments that allow you go into retirement knowing you did a lot in your 12 years as a pro and you gave it socks like”

O’Donnell is expected to be involved in the Munster team to host Cardiff Blues this Friday evening at 19:35.

Munster will be hoping to finish their season by winning the Rainbow Cup despite last week’s dissapointing 24-20 defeat to Connacht.