Brian O’Driscoll says Ireland should focus on rebuilding rather than measuring up to the Springboks.

Ireland have battled to rediscover the form that once made them the world’s top-ranked team since their gutting 2023 World Cup quarter-final exit to the All Blacks.

Several senior stars have retired, leaving Andy Farrell’s side searching for consistency.

In the two years since, Ireland have suffered defeats to France, the All Blacks, Springboks and England – a sharp contrast to the form that saw them string together 17 consecutive Test victories leading into that World Cup campaign.

Speaking on the Off The Ball podcast, O’Driscoll said Ireland’s focus should be on rebuilding after losing a generation of Test centurions, rather than trying to measure up to the world champions.

“We can’t concern ourselves with South Africa,” said the Ireland legend. “They’re doing their own thing over there. We need to concentrate on ourselves and build our strength, and do things our way.”

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The 46-year-old acknowledged that Ireland are navigating a difficult transition following the retirements of Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray, Johnny Sexton, Keith Earls and Cian Healy.

“Any team that loses five of their players is going to impact you significantly,” he said. “Maybe we need to cut ourselves a little bit of slack as the integration of new players comes through.”

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While O’Driscoll praised Ireland’s ability to stay competitive, he admitted the Springboks’ evolution sets a benchmark that cannot simply be replicated.

“Maybe we just need to live in the moment,” he said. “Build our performances, build our attack shape and give ourselves confidence.”

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