“It’s a great honour to be amongst one of the first few people to reach this milestone. To achieve this playing with friends makes the landmark all the more special because we’re a close bunch and we’ve come through a lot of the same highs and lows together over the years.
 
“I made my debut coming on as a sub away in Milan in the Heineken Cup in 1995. I had sat on the bench a few times before and Mike Ruddock was the coach. Even though it was a proud feeling, the occasion was laced in disappointment because we lost a game we really should have won. We had to endure a roasting in training the next day, believe me!

 
“I bridged both the amateur and the professional eras and even though I always harboured ambitions to do well, being a professional rugby player has been a blessing. The process was gradual and the standard has improved each year.
 
“A personal highlight for me was being part of the first Leinster squad to win on French soil, away in Montferrand. It was nice to be involved in that game. Performances like that one propelled the squad and we came on leaps and bounds particularly in Matt Williams’ second year. That momentum enabled us to go on and be more confident in our play.
 
“One thing that has grown enormously in recent years has been the support. That gives us all such a massive lift. I’ve also a lot of people to thank. From my schooldays where it all began Caleb Powell, in my early career Jake Howard and of course Roly Meates who has been hugely influential in my career. I count myself lucky to being in an era when Irish rugby is so strong.
 
“I’d also like to pay tribute to everyone connected with The King’s Hospital and my clubs Wanderers and St. Mary’s College. I’ve been fortunate to work with some outstanding coaches, support staff and play alongside some world-class players in my career.
 
“I could never have achieved what I have in the game without the support of my parents (Marie and Patrick) as well as my sister Ciara. They always backed me since turning pro and I’m really grateful for their support."