A discernible buzz of confidence but Schmidt warns of distraction

The 2019 Rugby World Cup is finally underway and before too long, it will be Ireland’s turn to get their campaign up and running. It will hardly be the gentlest of introductions to this global gathering of the sport’s greatest exponents, though, and the fact that Joe Schmidt’s men have to face Six Nations rivals Scotland first up tomorrow has shaped everything that has gone before this summer.

It is in stark contrast to the pool draw four years ago which allowed Schmidt to gather momentum in-tournament in England and Wales, starting with Canada and building momentum through further victories over Romania and Italy to give the perfect lead-in to the key fixture against France.