Brian O'Driscoll paid tribute to Richie McCaw after the Irishman lost his record as the most-capped international rugby player of all time to the New Zealand captain.

McCaw equalled O'Driscoll's previous marker of 141 caps as the All Blacks lost their Bledisloe Cup opener to Australia last weekend.

The veteran flanker had double cause for celebration on Saturday, though, as he marked his 142nd appearance by leading New Zealand to their defence of the trophy with a thumping 41-13 win in Auckland.

"Huge congrats to Richie McCaw in becoming the most capped Test player of all time. No one could be more deserving. #142," tweeted O'Driscoll.

McCaw made his debut against Ireland in 2001 - a match in which O'Driscoll also featured.