Ireland underlined their status as the world's top team and Six Nations title favourites by brushing aside Wales 34-10 in Cardiff.
Ireland great Brian O'Driscoll has hailed the SA sides' performances in the Champions Cup with the Bulls, Sharks and Stormers all in line to make the last 16.
Ireland captain Johnny Sexton was due to undergo surgery on Tuesday after suffering a cheekbone injury.
Ireland wing James Lowe admits it was "a bit weird" playing against his country of birth, New Zealand, earlier this year.