Rumours that Brian O'Driscoll is bound for Biarritz next season gathered momentum over the weekend after the Irish captain was introduced to the home crowd by the club president prior to their French championship game against Stade Francais on Saturday, reports Gerry Thornley.

O'Driscoll, who is recovering from the severely dislocated shoulder he controversially sustained in the Lions' first Test defeat to the All Blacks, reportedly took a light-hearted part in the pre-match warm-up when kicking a ball about with the Biarritz.

The game was televised live by Canal+, who interviewed O'Driscoll at half-time. The guest of honour explained he was there "on holidays" and was non-committal about his plans, but didn't deny that he would like to play there.