O'Driscoll has racked up 129 Ireland caps and featured in four British & Irish Lions tours, three of them alongside Munsterman Paul O'Connell.
And as the legendary outside centre enters the final chapter of his decorated career, O'Connell admits he will struggle to adapt to international rugby without him.
"It's tough to think what it will be like without him," said the 34-year-old.
"Obviously he's a fantastic player but the confidence he gives to people around him as well, even to the forward pack is massive for the team, and it's going to be a big loss to the team.
"Brian has so much experience at this stage, his body seems to be in great shape.
"The two of us are generally first out to warm up these days because it takes us a bit longer to get going than everyone else! So we have a chat on our own while we're waiting for everyone else to come out."
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