A robust lock who always puts his body on the line, DONNCHA O'CALLAGHAN has grown steadily in stature in the international arena since making his Ireland debut against Wales in 2003.

The last ten years must seem like a whirlwind to the Cork native who has gone from playing for Ireland at Schools level - he was first capped in 1997 - to winning the FIRA Under-19 World Youth championship in 1998, gaining Under-21, Under-25, Development XV and senior recognition, playing at a World Cup, winning Test caps with the British & Irish Lions and playing in Ireland's three Triple Crown triumphs. Not to mention his part in Munster's Heineken Cup success in 2005/06.

Coached in his early years at Highfield RFC and educated at Christian Brothers College, Cork, O'Callaghan boasts over 100 Munster caps.

O'Callaghan made his first full start for Ireland against Wales in February 2004, and initially struggled to make the starting line-up with Paul O'Connell and Malcolm O'Kelly fixtures in the second row.

The Munster giant has gained more Test caps as a replacement than a starter, but in the past two Six Nations championships he has played in every single game, with his reputation enhanced by his two appearances against New Zealand during the Lions' 2005 tour. His first and only try for Ireland to date came against France last year.