Ireland 'concentrating on themselves' ahead of clash with 'determined' Romania

In short, there is nothing that points to anything but a 14th consecutive Test victory for the world's number one side.

WATCHFUL EYE: Ireland head coach Andy Farrell during the captain's run at the Stade de Bordeaux. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire.

After four years in the making, Ireland finally get their 2023 World Cup campaign underway in France this afternoon and Johnny Sexton’s men will be under strict instructions not to fluff their lines against Pool B underdogs Romania.

Past history, current form and an expected Irish crowd estimated conservatively at 20,000-plus inside the 41,115-capacity Stade de Bordeaux suggest victory is not just expected but a pre-requisite for this opening game, despite the twin obstacles of 36C temperatures expected at kick-off and an intensely physical opposition.