Ronan O'Gara

Biography

Born in San Diego, USA, in 1977 O'Gara has risen through the ranks to become Ireland's first choice fly-half and now a strong contender for this years British & Irish Lions no. 10 spot.

Since his Ireland debut against Scotland in the 2000 Six Nations at the age of 23 Ronan O'Gara has faced intense competition from the likes of Ulster fly-half David Humphreys. However his great form cemented his place in the Ireland side and also earned him a place in the British & Irish Lions squad for their tour of Australia in 2001. He failed to gain a spot in a test side and his other opportunities were somewhat limited.

O'Gara continued to battle with Humphreys through 2003 and soon found himself second in the pecking order for the 2003 RWC in Australia after missing the Six Nations through injury.

With another twist in his career 2004 saw Ronan O'Gara estabish himself as a world class fly-half, helping guide Ireland to their first Six Nations Triple Crown in 19 years. This again secured him a place in the 2005 British & Irish Lions squad for thier tour of New Zealand. But again tough competition from the majestic Jonny Wilkinson and Stephen Jones limited him with only a sub appearance in the third test.

Continuing his awesome form for club and country O'Gara has become the most feared and dangerous no. 10 in the northern hemisphere if not the world. Is kicking game is unrivaled and is all time leading points scorer in both the Heineken Cup and the Six Nations.

Further highlights in O'Gara's now glittering career are leading Munster to two Heineken Cup triumphs in 2006 and 2008, and securing Ireland's first Six Nations Grand Slam in 61 years with a late drop goal.

With O'Gara in the form of his life right now his inclusion in the 2009 British & Irish Lions Squad comes as no surprise, will this year be his year as he again wages war against Wales and Llanelli Scarlets fly-half Stephen Jones for the sought after no.10 jersey. With a boot like his can O'Gara earn his first test start and kick the Lions to victory this summer in South Africa.

Tour History