Ireland are capable of winning World Cup, says Smith

EDDIE O’SULLIVAN’s Ireland pose a genuine threat to New Zealand’s hopes of winning the World Cup in France, according to All Blacks assistant coach Wayne Smith.

Smith labelled O’Sullivan’s side as “one of the really dangerous sides at the tournament” but warned their chances of glory willdepend on staying injury-free in key areas.

“I believe Ireland will be right up there at the end,” he said. “They have some of the world’s best players. If they stay fit and fresh they have the ability to trouble any side in the competition. We arecertainly aware of them and the threat they pose.