Ireland have a final chance to record a tour win when they take on Australia at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night and Ireland defence coach Les Kiss is drawing confidence from the 66-28 loss his side suffered to New Zealand last time out.

LEINSTER coach Michael Cheika has not given up hope of keeping Rocky Elsom at Leinster for another 12 months even if, ironically enough, the iron man from Melbourne might feel there’s little point in staying now simply because it’s a case of mission accomplished.

Connacht are bringing a festival of rugby to Galway for their preseason friendlies which are due to take place this August, which includes the first ever meeting with Australian Super 14 side, Queensland Reds.