Ireland's home straight to World Cup starts with Pumas

As he announced his team selection on Wednesday afternoon, Ireland head coach Andy Farrell acknowledged his side are not presently "good enough to board the plane believing that 100%" they are ready to lift the Webb Ellis trophy for the first time.

A year out from the World Cups of 2015, 2019 and 2023, Ireland had enjoyed banner seasons, and by this stage were eagerly anticipating the tournaments to come.

While that has not been the case through 2026 to date, the head coach added that he is excited by the thought of the work still to do.

If wider optimism around next year feels in short supply, it is because Ireland's issues have come to bear when playing the very best.