O’Driscoll Voices Concern Over Ireland’s “Risk-Averse” Rugby Approach
Ireland’s recent performances have sparked debate, with former captain Brian O’Driscoll expressing perplexity over what he perceives as a growing “risk-averse” style of play under head coach Andy Farrell since the Rugby World Cup. The shift in approach is a notable departure from the team’s previously celebrated, multi-phase rugby that delivered significant success, including a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2023 and a series victory against the All Blacks in New Zealand in 2022.
From Grand Slam Glory to Growing Concerns
Farrell’s Ireland had become synonymous with an expansive, attacking game plan. This strategy proved highly effective, culminating in a period of sustained success. While the team’s 2023 World Cup campaign didn’t result in a deep run in the tournament, they were narrowly defeated by New Zealand in the quarter-finals – a result that suggested they were close to contending for the championship.
However, the period following the global tournament, particularly throughout 2025 and into early 2026, has seen a discernible decline in performance. Several factors, including potential issues with execution and the natural effects of an aging squad, are likely contributing to the struggles. Yet, O’Driscoll believes a fundamental shift in mindset is at the heart of the issue, describing the current team as “negative.”
The Evolving Game and Ireland’s Response
The landscape of rugby has undergone changes, notably with the removal of ‘escorts’ – designated players tasked with protecting kickers – which has increased the importance of the kicking battle. Despite this evolution, O’Driscoll argues that Ireland still possesses the talent and capability to be more adventurous in their play.
“They’ve gone so negative,” O’Driscoll stated on Off The Ball’s The Rugby Roadshow. “Do you not think we’re never going to beat a team by just winning in the air? We’ve got to think our way around beating the best sides and when you look back and reflect on our best rugby and kind of inspiring rugby, it wasn’t about our kicking game.”
He emphasized the importance of taking risks and trusting in their attacking abilities. “It was about us backing ourselves to get soft shoulders, to get off-loads away, to take a few more risks. I think we’re becoming increasingly risk-averse.” He specifically pointed to the change in approach of scrum-half Jamison Gibson-Park, noting that he now appears to prioritize structure over seizing opportunities. “Gibson-Park, it’s so unlike him to get to a ruck and almost just wait for the players to get into their shape. Screw the shape, if it’s free, go! Because the defence isn’t aligned either.”
Ulster as a Blueprint for Success
O’Driscoll’s concerns were echoed by fellow former Ireland international Stephen Ferris, who highlighted the positive and proactive approach of Ulster as a potential model for the national team. “Is that now why a lot of people are really enjoying watching Ulster? Ulster are playing with that intent,” Ferris observed. “Ulster attack from everywhere. Yes, they have a half-decent kicking game but their skill set, this season in particular, has been really, really high. I think that’s why everybody is getting massively excited about Ulster and why some of the guys should maybe be given more of an opportunity with Ireland.”
O’Driscoll concurred, adding a critical assessment of the current Irish team’s identity. “People will go, ‘not kicking the ball again’, but if you get it back, it’s like ‘okay at least there’s a result-based outcome here’, where we’re going to get territory, we’re going to get position,” he explained. “Whereas, if you lose that, it’s like, we’re kicking the ball away and we’re not getting it back, and we’re not winning the scrap, so what are we doing? What’s our style? What do we stand for?”
He concluded with a stark assessment: “It’s really hard to see at the moment what constitutes an Irish style and I think we’re a little bit lost on that front and we need to rediscover what we’re best at.” The challenge for Andy Farrell and his squad now lies in finding that lost identity and rediscovering the adventurous spirit that once defined Irish rugby.
