O’Sullivan has recalled the Munster second row after his eye-catching performance from the bench two weeks ago in the 34-13 win over Scotland.
And when O’Connell impressed playing regional rugby against the Blues last Saturday, O’Sullivan’s mind was made up.
“Paul came off the bench and had a big impact in the game against Scotland. He then had a fine game for Munster at the weekend, he lasted the pace and got a lot of work done. The fact he got that match under his belt influenced the decision, he’s a good leader.”
O’Sullivan of course has the experience of veteran Mick O’Driscoll to call upon, but on this occasion it is O’Connell who gets the nod over his provincial colleague.
And Saturday’s eagerly-awaited RBS Six Nations duel at Croke Park will see Rory Best return to the front row. A heralded performance for Ulster against the Scarlets last Friday means Leinster’s Bernard Jackman makes way and will start on the bench.
“I have to be sensible and say look, Rory (Best) has probably proved himself,” said O’Sullivan.
The coach has a selection crunch at fullback, with fitness doubts over Geordan Murphy and Girvan Dempsey. “Girvan and Geordan are both struggling at the moment. They are nip and tuck in terms of fitness and will be given until Thursday before we decide if they are ready.”
Murphy picked up an Achilles tendon strain playing for Leicester last weekend and did not train on Tuesday, but underwent treatment and a rehabilitation session. Dempsey is struggling with a hip flexor muscle and took a limited part in training and, like Murphy, will be monitored over the next 24 hours.
Tommy Bowe remains on the right wing with Shane Horgan on the bench. Jackman and O’Driscoll are the only changes to what is still a replacements bench with punch.
Ireland: AN Other; Tommy Bowe, Brian O’Driscoll (Capt), Andrew Trimble, Robert Kearney; Ronan O’Gara, Eoin Reddan; Marcus Horan, Rory Best, John Hayes, Donncha O’Callaghan, Paul O’Connell, Denis Leamy, David Wallace, Jamie Heaslip
Replacements: Bernard Jackman, Tony Buckley, Mick O’Driscoll, Simon Easterby, Peter Stringer, Paddy Wallace, Shane Horgan
