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After the first four rounds of the Six Nations, if any Australian was keeping note of what are perceived to be their main opposition in the pool stages, then they most likely would not have been overly concerned.
Then in the last round, the English, who came looking for a Grand Slam, were sent packing by the most complete performance by any side in the championship.
The Irish finally delivered the full performance which had been seen in drips and draps throughout the competition.
So is this what can be expected come the World Cup or were the first four games more indicative of what is to come? Being the perrenially optimistic Irish man that I am, I certainly believe it is the former.
On the domestic scene, we have seen Munster’s fall from grace in Europe, though they are clear leaders of the Magners League. Connacht have improved on last year, but will likely only have one representative in the squad. Ulster have been fantastic this season and it is hard to underestimate the South African influence on the side.
They have given this talented yet young squad the confidence to play the game that suits their skills and has also given them a winning mentality. Leinster have gone onto another level it seems with Joe Schmidt as head coach; Heineken Cup finalists playing a complete brand of rugby.
So how do Australian rugby fans see the prospect of the Irish match? The last two games between the sides were a 20 all draw in Croke Park and a 22-15 victory for Australia in Brisbane. The two sides are evenly matched and on neutral ground in Auckland, who knows what will happen?
The one difference is that this time round is that Ireland have found a scrum with Leinster tight head prop Mike Ross anchoring that aspect of the game. Against some very strong units in the Six Nations, Ross, Best and Healy more than held their own and really challenged the opposition.
The whole rugby world knows that they key players for this Irish side are Ireland’s captain Brian O’Driscoll and talismanic lock Paul O’Connell. Yet there are others in this side that Australia will need to keep a close lock on.
Sean O’Brien has arguably been the best player in Europe this past season rampaging his way through nearly every side he has encountered. Jonny Sexton looks like he will be first five come the World Cup. U
ntil the England game, his form hadn’t translated from provincial to Test rugby, but the England game showed he has the all round game that makes him a better option to start than O’Gara, who still provides a very important bench option.
Last of all is Keith Earls, who wherever he is played, as long as Ireland manage to get the ball into his hands is an x-factor in attack for this side.
I’m predicting that this match-up in Auckland’s Eden Park on September 17th will be the game of the pool stages, but which way do you see it going?
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.