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Rugby Union

O'Driscoll accuses England of mind games

23/02/2007

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has accused England of playing mind games over Jonny Wilkinson's fitness.

Wilkinson missed training yesterday with a tight hamstring and is considered a major doubt for tomorrow's crucial Six Nation clash at Croke Park.

But O'Driscoll was convinced at today's press conference that the England talisman would be in the starting line-up.

"I have no doubt at all [that Wilkinson will play]," he said. "Teams sometimes play these sorts of games beforehand. Each to their own."

Wilkinson was an inspiration in England's Six Nations opener against Scotland, his first international appearance since kicking the winning drop goal against Australia in the 2003 Rugby World Cup final.

The Newcastle number ten notched up a drop-goal, two conversions, a try and five penalties against the Scots and was the difference between the sides a week later as England laboured to a win over Italy.

O'Driscoll has had his own hamstring problems, missing his side's defeat to France a fortnight ago, but the centre has been passed fit for tomorrow's game.

Ireland also have scrum-half Peter Stringer and fly-half Ronan O'Gara available after both players shook off knocks.

After losing to France, the Irish know they need a win against the world champions to have any chance to winning the Six Nations.

England meanwhile, who will definitely be without experienced wing Jason Robinson, are looking for a result and perhaps more importantly a good performance after the disappointment of the Italy game.

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