The 2019 Six Nations looms on the horizon as Ireland look to defend their crown for the final time of the Joe Schmidt reign.
On this week's World in Union, the Balls.ie rugby show getting an outside perspective on the sport, rugby expert Charlie Morgan of the Daily Telegraph joined us to preview the tournament and he went for an outside shout when asked to predict a winner.
I think Wales. They have been my pick from a long way out to win it. I just think Warren Gatland has played an absolute blinder this World Cup cycle and he is peeking brilliantly. They have got Ireland at home and they are not scared of Ireland. Aren't they the only side Joe Schmidt has a below 50% win record against? They are just not intimidated by Ireland in a way that I think other sides around the world are now.
Wales are certainly well-placed to shake off their third favourites tag and secure the crown. They are set to play their two most difficult games, against England and Ireland, at home. Gatland's side are also unbeaten in nine games after a superb November series.
Morgan did say Ireland are best suited to challenge them and feels they should edge England this weekend. In that event, the final weekend could be a blockbuster affair with Ireland travelling to Cardiff on Saturday, 16 March.
You can watch the full show here, or listen to it here and on all good podcast services.
