Ireland head into Saturday's game against England at Twickenham hoping to end what has been a recent poor run against Eddie Jones' side. They have lost their last three meetings against the English, all of which have been fairly comfortable defeats.
The fixture this weekend looks like a daunting task. It was confirmed earlier today that Johnny Sexton and Robbie Henshaw wouldn't be available due to injury, adding to a list that already included the likes of Garry Ringrose and Tadhg Furlong.
However, Eddie Jones claims his side are not exactly in the best of shape heading into this one either.
England have played Italy and Georgia in recent weeks, but Australian believes that having only a couple of games against lesser international sides leaves his team somewhat undercooked for the test Ireland are likely to provide.
It's a massive step up. You've just got to look at the world rankings.
Georgia are ranked 12, Italy are 14th. Ireland are in the top four or five (fifth). It's like going from playing Kei Nishikori to Novak Djokovic in tennis.
The last two games haven't helped our preparations. Our difficulty is that we've played two tier-two countries and we're going to play against a team who have had a great preparation against Wales and France.
We're going to have to prepare really well this week because Ireland are a tough, physical team.
They've been at the top of world rugby for the last four or five years, in the top four or five teams.
Obviously had some great European success and had a change of coach after the World Cup. They present a massive physical challenge and a good tactical challenge.
Of course, Jones wouldn't be adverse to using mind games ahead of a big game. We're sure England will be in flying form.
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