It's been over six years since Peter Stringer last played for Ireland, but the scrum-half has enjoyed a career resurgence in England in recent years.
After two successful years at Bath, the 98-times capped Ireland international joined Worcester Warriors in July. Signing a six-month contract, Stringer will play into his forties, fitness permitting.
Ahead of the Aviva Premiership season, the Cork native spoke to Off the Ball about his move to Worcester, his time in England, the way his Munster career ended and his international experiences.
One of the most interesting parts of the fascinating interview, was Stringer explaining why he chooses not to drink alcohol. He has joined former Ireland and Munster teammate Donncha O'Callaghan at Worcester. The 38-year-old, who is going into his third season at the Sixways club is also a non-drinker.
I always try and think back to a reason and if there was a moment and I can only put it down to going to rugby internationals with my dad when I was a kid.
You'd leave the old Lansdowne Road walking across the pitch. You'd look into the terraces and you might see a guy lying on the steps of the terrace on his own with a bottle of cider.
Whether these moments had a lasting effect on me of just not being in control or being on your own or just being I suppose unaware of where you are. Maybe it's stemmed from that.
I like being in control of everything around me, in control of my career and everything I do....
Obviously you go through a couple of tough years in University when people have no respect for you when you don't do that. You're not really part of the crowd after games, but it's something you come out the far side of.
I'm glad that I never had [had a drink]. I can probably say I never will. It's just something I've gone through. I've lived and it's going to continue that way.
Although Stringer's contract with the Premiership side is only for six months, it looks like he is not hanging up his boots anytime soon. He continues to keep playing next year, whether it's at Worcester or somewhere else.
As long as the body and the mind are in sync with each other, and I'm playing at a competitive level and I feel good enough to do it, then I'll keep doing it.
I spoke to Robbie Keane the other day, ahead of his new venture to India. He was like; 'we're going to be a long time retired, so keep playing as long as week can...'
I enjoy it. I want to keep going for as long as I can. The body feels good, so lets see what happens.
You can listen to the full interview with Stringer here.
