Irish team pay Cup fines to Christchurch

Irish rugby star Brian O'Driscoll said the entire team was behind the decision. Photo / Greg Bowker

Irish rugby players have used their fines kitty accumulated during their Rugby World Cup campaign to make a $6000 donation to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal Fund.

The Irish rugby team made the donation as a mark of respect to the lives lost in the February 22 earthquake and will help rebuild club rugby throughout Canterbury.

Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll said the entire squad backed the decision to make the donation.

He said: "The welcome that we received at every turn during the tournament from the local communities, who really embraced us everywhere we went, was incredible.

"The tournament itself, not only from our perspective, was a fantastic showpiece and run with such commitment and enthusiasm by the people of New Zealand, it was a credit to the entire nation.

"My only regret was that we were not able to stay in the tournament for longer to give our supporters more to shout about and also allow us to continue to soak up the amazing atmosphere that was continuing to build around the tournament.

"Members of the squad had contact with many people who were affected by the Christchurch earthquake and it was heartbreaking to see the pictures of the devastation there.

"The players all felt that they wanted to make some sort of gesture to show our appreciation for the support given to us and that the fines built up during the tournament would be best served by helping the people and rugby community in Christchurch.''

In addition to the player's fund being donated to the appeal, the Irish Rugby Football Union has also made a contribution.

The full $6000 will be donated through the International Rugby Board's appeal fund that will go directly to helping to restore Canterbury's Rugby infrastructure at all levels and helping rugby clubs, players and communities affected by the quake.

Donations can be made through www.rwcchristchurchappeal.com.