O'Driscoll calls for Irish progress
Brian O'Driscoll will lead Ireland into Saturday's RBS 6 Nations opener warning his team-mates they must continue to evolve if they are to retain their title.
Ireland completed their first Grand Slam in 61 years in last season's championship and launch their defence against Italy at Croke Park.
"There's an element of the monkey now being off our back, but that's come and gone," he said. "You just forget that and look to another campaign, putting the same pressure on yourself to perform."
He added: "We've spoken about expectations and we know we can't remain stagnant, otherwise other teams will pass us by. That's our sole focus."
Press Association