Front Row

I reckon historically you'd always count on the Irish to push you around the park at scrum time.

These days I'm not so sure. I've seen some mixed performances so I don't think anything is conclusive yet. I wouldn't say you've got a strong scrum - but it's definitely stronger than Australia's! Although in fairness, alot of it comes down to fitness of your front row - and in that game in question Australia didn't have their best scrummaging front-rowers out, whereas I think you've unearthed a good couple of scrummaging props now who were able to take them to the cleaners. Give them time and experience and they could be a force against most front countries.

Whether they've got enough experience and the right techniques right now for dealing with the renowned Italian front row though...