Joe Schmidt’s Ireland go into this year’s World Cup as serious contenders. In the past 18 months, they have beaten every major nation in world rugby once or more – including two wins over the All Blacks.

They kick-off their bid for a first World Cup in a Celtic derby game against Scotland, in what promises to be a spicy encounter, and a game both teams must win if they want to finish on top of Pool A. 

This is currently the best group of players Ireland has ever produced going into a Rugby World Cup. Expectations back home are high and the team have proved they can handle high-pressure games – now they just need to do it on the biggest stage of them all.

The Rugby World Cup 2019 TV Preview – Will Ireland win their first World Cup?

Ireland has world-class throughout their team, but it is their two half-backs that have taken their game to the next level. Fly-half Johnny Sexton’s partnership with scrum-half Conor Murray has been the envy of world rugby, constantly winning territory through pin-point passing and acute box kicking.

However, coming into the Rugby World Cup, these two superstars have been struggling with injuries, and Ireland’s physios will have to make sure they are in top shape if they want to remain contenders for the Webb Ellis Trophy. One positive is that they have one of the easier pools, avoiding major Southern Hemisphere teams, so time is on their side. 

Their two toughest games in Pool A come against Scotland and World Cup hosts Japan, both of which they should win. Find form in these opening two games and Ireland could create a platform for a truly memorable tournament – giving their most successful ever coach, Joe Schmidt, the send-off he deserves.

Review of Ireland’s Group Matches

Ireland vs Scotland: Ireland kick-off their World Cup against European rugby neighbours Scotland, who join them as favourites to progress from Pool A. This should be a feisty encounter with plenty of fast-flowing, attacking rugby.

Ireland vs Japan: If Japan’s national rugby team can turn home support into points then this could be a dangerous game for the Irish. Ireland certainly has the quality to overcome the Cherry Blossoms – but it will be close.

Ireland vs Russia: A game against rugby minnows Russia will give some of Ireland’s squad players a chance to prove themselves for the knock-out stages. This will be a comfortable win vs Russia for the men in green. 

Ireland vs Samoa: A tough and physical final game against Samoa should end in an Ireland win. However, Samoa is a true rugby nation and love to mix it with the big boys during the Rugby World Cup, so anything is possible.

How to stream every Ireland game at The Rugby World Cup 2019™

Kayo Sports will have every match of the Rugby World Cup 2019™ LIVE with no ad-breaks during play. You’ll also get access to a range of great features, including SplitView (which lets you watch up to four different sporting events simultaneously on the same screen, on compatible devices) as well as No Spoilers (hides the scores) and Key Moments (lets you jump to the most important moments of the match – available for selected sports and matches), all of which greatly enhance the viewing experience for those watching on-demand.

Take a moment to review the Kayo 14 days free trial, and then check out The Rugby World Cup 2019™ fixture list below. You can then start streaming team Ireland live to a variety of eligible devices, also listed below.

Please note: Kayo requires internet & compatible device. Data charges may apply. Kayo service available in Australia only.

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What time does Ireland Play? Live TV Fixtures

TV fixtures are shown as Sydney time, so you may need to adjust the hour depending on where you live. The Rugby World Cup 2019™ on-demand match replays will be made available following the conclusion of each game – so you will need to consult your Kayo TV Guide during the tournament for exact times.

Ireland Group Games Live TV (Sydney time)

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