Denis, a fans' favourite for both Leinster and Ireland, has been a professional rugby player for much of his adult life and he recently announced his decision to retire at the end of the 2007 Rugby World Cup.

Pundits, fans and players alike were shocked at his announcement, but when the dust settled the overwhelming opinion was that this was a brave decision by one of Ireland's most talented wingers to retire at the top of his game.

As the player himself says, his is one of the jobs with no security. Week in, week out a player puts his job on the line for others (coaches, pundits and fans) to judge. Now he can make his first selection decision.

IrishRugby.ie - Denis Hickie speaks to Jim Sherwin