Sir, – The questioning of Warren Gatland’s decision to omit former Ireland rugby captain Brian O’Driscoll from the Lions team for the final Test match in Australia has been answered emphatically, on the pitch.
To his credit, O’Driscoll behaved throughout this episode with courtesy, dignity and professionalism, unlike some who were irrationally incensed by his demotion from the panel. It should not be lost sight of that modern-day rugby players like Brian O’Driscoll are hugely paid for doing what they love.
With that in mind, perhaps a thought and thanks to those Dublin hurlers who, after 52 years, won a Leinster hurling title. This title wasn’t won just on the day. It has taken years of dedicated training, sacrifice and self-denial throughout long winters with no monetary compensation. These young men epitomise the true meaning of sport by subscribing to the notion of loyalty to the common good, not just to the elite. They place community and society above individual demands. – Yours, etc,
TOM COOPER,
Delaford Lawn,
Knocklyon,
Dublin 16.