Ireland captain Johnny Sexton has confirmed that he has no immediate plants of a retirement following criticisms from former players and members of media.
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Sexton, who made his Ireland debut in 2009 recently made his 100th Test appearance that includes six games for the British and Irish Lions and has amassed 855 points at the international level.
The 35-year-old had tough times with injuries with a thumb and a knee issue troubling him in the last two years before another hamstring injury that forced him to miss two matches for Ireland in the ongoing Autumn Nations Cup.
Sexton is expected to return to action for the third place play-off against Scotland on Saturday. Amid criticisms, Sexton said he has the hunger to carry on playing with the 2023 World Cup in mind.
“Look, there have been guys in teams over the years that have gone to World Cups at 37, 38,” said Sexton, who is set to return from injury against Scotland on Saturday.
“Do I think I can get there? I think I can. But at the age you’re at, you’ve got to take it one year at a time.
“I’m still hungry, I still love the game, I still love competing, I still love training and being part of this team. I don’t see any reason to stop.
“I want to be the best out-half in Ireland and I still have aspirations for other things as well.
“I am not going to retire just because you guys (the media) want me to. I’ll keep going while I feel good and I feel hungry. I know some past players want to retire me as well – but I will crack on.”
