Two years out from the World Cup, Ireland now know who they are playing after Wednesday’s draw.
The fixture dates come next February as World Rugby look for spikes of ‘hype’, a tactic which divides the opinion of our panel.
Nathan Johns is joined by Gordon D’Arcy and John O’Sullivan to look at Ireland’s draw and preview the upcoming European action.
Leinster may well have a chance to blood a few newer faces due to injury, while Munster face a fascinating trip to take on old friend Johann van Graan in Bath. In the Challenge Cup, Ulster and Connacht will look to continue their strong league form against Racing and Ospreys respectively.
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The Counter Ruck: the rugby newsletter from The Irish Times
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We preview all the action as European matches return.
Produced by John Casey.
