Ireland will sparkle at World Cup, says Robbie Deans

A pair of iconic southern hemisphere rugby personalities have tipped Ireland to make a huge impact in the upcoming World Cup.

Robbie Deans and Brad Thorn believe Joe Schmidt’s team have more than a sporting chance of upsetting the big boys of rugby to win the trophy for the first time.

Former Wallaby coach Deans is to coach the famous Barbarians club against Ireland in Limerick’s Thomond Park on May 28 and has been taking more than a passing interest in the rugby affairs of the northern hemisphere this winter.