Why Schmidt needs to Boks clever

A genuine treat awaits. Notwithstanding the fact New Zealand will be giving Dublin a skip this month, some of rugby’s standout performers are coming to town in November, writes Donal Lenihan.

Australia’s Israel Folau has lit up the rugby scene since making his debut against the Lions last year while young Wallaby captain Michael Hooper has now taken over the mantle from the great Richie McCaw as the game’s standout open side.

Even the Georgians have a stellar performer in rampaging Toulon back rower Mamuka Gorgodze. Unfortunately, a crocked knee may well prevent him from lining out at the Aviva Stadium, just one of several marquee names set to miss out on international duty this month due to an exhaustive injury list that appears to grow by the day with Rory Best almost certain to be the latest addition.