Sunday best, and nothing less

THIS is where things really get serious for Ireland. Tomorrow’s Six Nations encounter with reigning champions and Grand Slam winners France will not only determine the nature of Irish ambition for the rest of the championship, but give us a glimpse of what should be expected later this year at the Rugby World Cup.

A victory at the Aviva Stadium (kick-off 3pm) will be Ireland’s first over a top-tier side in four attempts since the defeat of England at Twickenham 50 weeks ago and will confirm that Declan Kidney’s side have what it takes to match fire with fire against the best in the world.

Defeat in Dublin to Marc Lievremont’s adventurous and powerful outfit not only means an end to Six Nations title hopes at just the second hurdle but signals an extended run among the global also-rans.