Sexton: We need to be ready for physical confrontation

Ireland and Leinster flyhalf Johnny Sexton insists Declan Kidney's charges will need to be prepared for a physically demanding contest when they take on South Africa in the first of Ireland’s autumn international Test matches at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday (5.30pm).

Despite a disappointing Rugby Championship campaign which saw them win just two games from six, the Springboks remain third in the IRB World Rankings with Ireland four teams lower on seventh.