Rugby World Cup hosts Japan will become the latest outfit to attempt to unsettle Ireland superstar Johnny Sexton this weekend.
Gregor Townsend bemoaned Scotland's sluggish start in their loss to Ireland as he admitted to concern over the injured Hamish Watson.
Ireland downed Scotland in their Rugby World Cup opener and should have Johnny Sexton available for next weekend's second Pool A game.
Rory Best began his final Rugby World Cup campaign with a try as Ireland accelerated away from Scotland en route to an opening win.
Johnny Sexton and Rory Best led the way as Ireland's thumping win over Scotland affirmed their credentials as Rugby World Cup challengers.
Johnny Sexton was taken off with injury against Scotland earlier this year and Gregor Townsend's men intend to get physical again.
The enthusiasm of Jordan Larmour, Andrew Conway and Jacob Stockdale can spur Ireland on against Scotland, according to Joe Schmidt.
Scotland's side to face Ireland in their Rugby World Cup opener features 10 changes from the win over Georgia.
Keith Earls and Rob Kearney have been left out of Ireland's Rugby World Cup Pool A clash with Scotland amid fitness concerns.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup, three Omnisport writers take a look at the main talking points for the tournament in Japan.
Japan defeated South Africa four years ago and Ireland great Brian O'Driscoll believes they could provide another Rugby World Cup upset.
Despite suffering a hamstring problem in training, Ireland centre Robbie Henshaw will not be heading home early from Japan.
We take a look at five top players who might consider themselves unfortunate to miss the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Wales avoided a repeat of 2015's pre-Rugby World Cup injury problems as Ireland won 19-10 in Dublin on Saturday to take the No.1 ranking.
Ireland have been boosted by the returns of Johnny Sexton, Conor Murray, Keith Earls and Robbie Henshaw for their meeting with Wales.
Wales have rung the changes against Ireland as they finish preparations for the Rugby World Cup.