New Zealand defence coach Scott McLeod has admitted the level witnessed in the Rugby World Cup Pool B clash between South Africa and Ireland is one they aspire to.
The Springboks have dropped one place in the latest World Rugby rankings after their loss against Ireland, while the Wallabies have dropped to a record low.
Springboks Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus confirmed that Handre Pollard will very likely start his 2023 Rugby World Cup against Tonga next weekend.
South Africa coach Jacques Nienaber conceded his side were second best against Ireland in their epic Pool B clash on Saturday, but insists they can still retain the Rugby World Cup.
Ireland talisman Johnny Sexton wants his charges to use the momentum from the win over South Africa to go deep into the Rugby World Cup.
Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber and captain Siya Kolisi rued the missed opportunities as they suffered a disappointing 13-8 defeat to Ireland at the Stade de France in Paris on Saturday.