Eddie Jones, with a bit of irritation in his voice, has spent all week saying it. I haven’t spoken to anyone who does not think Ireland are favourites, and the stats bear it out. They have won 10 of their past 11 matches, with the loss coming in Paris without their captain Johnny Sexton. That run includes beating the All Blacks.
These days, Ireland are a real force in the global game, and this rivalry is as real and relevant as it has ever been. They have always been dangerous, but when I played, Ireland did not have the consistency they have developed in recent years, when they have won Grand Slams and titles. Ireland are as good as they have ever been. The conversation in the northern hemisphere was once about France, England and who else? Wales under Warren Gatland won titles, Ireland have well and truly joined that group and, right now, England are struggling to keep up.
Denne historien er fra March 11, 2022-utgaven av Evening Standard.
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Denne historien er fra March 11, 2022-utgaven av Evening Standard.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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I struggle with being recognised... I'll never really feel comfortable with it'
