Conrad Smith: Ireland now at All Blacks level

As a two-time world champion, Conrad Smith knows what it takes to be the best in the world.

And that’s why the former All Black centre is worth listening to when he says he believes Joe Schmidt’s men are ready to compete with New Zealand for the title.

Ireland are currently second in World Rugby’s rankings after their Six Nations Grand Slam success, but Smith has seen plenty to impress him over the last few years, not just the last two months.