Healy: I don't have a medal for a ranking

Even if Cian Healy's Test career ends at next year's World Cup, there's a real possibility that he could draw level, or even break Brian O'Driscoll's Irish record in the next 12 months.

On 119 caps, he's fourth in the all-time list, with only Rory Best and Ronan O'Gara separating him from O'Driscoll's record of 133.

But as he rounds towards what he hopes will be his fourth World Cup campaign with Ireland, he says he'd happily fall short of the appearances record if it means the team breaks new ground in France next year.

"I could have 200 caps and no medals and I know where I'd be happier," he said.

"I'd take another five if I got some more silverware for it, instead of another 20. I think a cap number without reward is not so important."

Likewise, he isn't too concerned about Ireland's position on top of rugby's world rankings.

"Personally, I would tend not to look at that sort of stuff. I wouldn't take a ranking into account because I don't have a medal for a ranking. That's how I look at things.

"With your preparation though, you're preparing to be the best version of yourself and if everyone prepares to be the version of themselves we should continue to grow."

Whether or not he remains an Irish international after next year's World Cup, the 35-year-old is still expected to continue on with Leinster at least until the summer of 2024.

The last 18 months have seen the veteran loosehead move into a sort of big brother role in the Irish pack, having handed the number one jersey to Andrew Porter following his move across the scrum in 2021.

Even if his minutes aren't what they used to be, his experience means he's still a big part of Andy Farrell's plans, the steady hand on the tiller if Porter was to be unavailable, featuring in 10