O'Driscoll out of the Six Nations

Brian O'Driscoll : Didn't see a huge amount of ball, barring an early break from a Best offload. But Drico in his later years has turned into a utility back row and his constant pressure at the break down contributed to the Ireland's momentous ef (GETTY)

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll has been ruled out of the Six Nations and will be out of action for up to six months as he has decided to undergo surgery on the neck and shoulder injury that has plagued him for almost a year.

The 32-year-old Leinster player, Ireland's record try-scorer, has not played at all for his club this season and will miss their Heineken Cup defence which starts this weekend.

In a statement Leinster said: "It has been confirmed that Brian O'Driscoll will undergo surgery next week for a trapped nerve in his shoulder which is expected to rule the Ireland captain out for up to six months."

Earlier this year O'Driscoll broke the 78-year-old record set by Scotland's Ian Smith as the all-time Five/Six Nations top try-scorer when he crossed for his 25th championship try against England.