Ireland must step up for World Cup countdown - Farrell

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell says he is ready to tackle another challenging journey as he admitted his squad must improve before they can harbour realistic aspirations of winning next year's Rugby World Cup.

While Ireland have won six out of eight Tests in 2026, humbling defeats by France and New Zealand served as reminders of the level they must reach.

With world champions South Africa visiting Dublin during a busy November that also includes home matches against Argentina and Fiji and a Nations Championship finals fixture at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium, Farrell says his players are prepared to push themselves in pursuit of the ultimate prize in Australia next year.