The battle

The revelatory autobiography of a rugby colossus: Paul O'ConnellThere has never been a rugby player quite like Paul O'Connell.

He is synonymous with passion, heart and determination; but he is also the thinking man's rugby player, a legendary student of the game.

As the heartbeat of Munster, British and Irish Lions captain in 2009, and captain of the first Ireland team to defend a Six Nations championship, O'Connell has emerged as perhaps the most beloved of the golden generation of Irish rugby players.

In an autobiography as intense as its author, he tells the story of his remarkable career.'This is one of the great players of history ...a sportsman for all ages' Stephen Jones, Sunday Times'He's probably the best player I've played against in my career' Victor Matfield