Ireland
Five wins, each by a margin of 10 points or more, demonstrate just how dominant Andy Farrell's side have been. Immediately after victory against England cemented their fourth grand slam - and first to be won in Dublin - they were looking towards the World Cup with confidence, embracing the expectation that has traditionally laid heavily. This is not a criticism but there is something brutally mechanical about Ireland. A system working with maximum efficiency. There is strength in depth, too burnished on the five-game tour of New Zealand last summer - and, though their route is daunting, they have every right to head to the World Cup as favourites. But, while it is a truism, they will need a slice of luck with Johnny Sexton's fitness if they are to become only the second side from the northern hemisphere to be crowned world champions.
France
Denne historien er fra March 20, 2023-utgaven av The Guardian.
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Denne historien er fra March 20, 2023-utgaven av The Guardian.
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