Adam Ashley-Cooper has engaged in a Twitter spat with Irish superstar Brian O'Driscoll after the Wallabies vice-captain was accused of chasing riches over silverware.
Ashley-Cooper, who revealed to AAP earlier this year he was moving to France with his partner for a lifestyle change, was upset after O'Driscoll claimed on radio that the 31-year-old signed a two-season deal with Bordeaux purely for financial gain.
"Ashley-Cooper didn't go to Bordeaux to win Top 14 titles. He went for a bit of sunshine and a bit of money," O'Driscoll told Newstalk's Off The Ball program.
O'Driscoll also said money would be the motivating factor behind which club Irish five-eighth Ian Madigan would play for.
Ashley-Cooper expressed his displeasure for all to see on social media.
"Hi @BrianODriscoll. Regarding the below... I disagree. Strongly," the 114-Test stalwart posted.
O'Driscoll responded with: "@AdamCoopy that quote is incorrect. It should have said 'pension' instead of 'a bit of money'... And there's no shame in that!"
Ashley-Cooper didn't see the humour and hit back with: "@BrianODriscoll haha well i guess there's no shame in playing your last 2 seasons hanging on for cash then either?"
O'Driscoll, the second-most-capped in rugby history behind only Richie McCaw with 141 Tests to his credit, then pointed out that he actually won a Lions series, a Six Nations crown and other big trophies in a decorated career.
"The few bob was an added bonus! #whatevs #??," the Irish legend tweeted.
"@BrianODriscoll Thanks for your rugby CV mate and well done on those achievements" was Ashley-Cooper's final lash before his good mate and fellow France-based star Matt Giteau intervened in an apparent bid to lighten the mood.
"@AdamCoopy @BrianODriscoll only bloke I know that chased cash instead of titles was @JonnyWilkinson. However I helped him get the later ?? #J??"
Wilkinson was only too happy to play along.
"@giteau_rugby @drew_mitchell @AdamCoopy I only practised cos I got paid per kicking session. G man gets fined 4 any extras #lastin1stout," the Englishman posted.
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