Bernard Jackman: South Africa's 'kamikaze' defence will present chances

South Africa's "kamikaze" defensive system along with a regimental lineout strategy will present Ireland with opportunities if they can execute their own gameplan correctly, according to Bernard Jackman.

The Pool B heavyweight clash takes place on Saturday when the world champions take on an Irish side ranked number one in the world in Paris.

Despite coasting past Romania in the opening game, Ireland’s lineout again creaked on occasions, a pattern that has continued in recent games.

Following the 59-16 victory over Tonga last time out, Ireland looked far more assured with their darts, something which greatly pleased forwards coach Paul O’Connell.

With Dan Sheehan expected to be available for selection to compete with Rónan Kelleher and Rob Herring, it is in contrast to the Springboks who lost their talisman Malcolm Marx last week.

Speaking on RTÉ's Game On, former Ireland and Leinster hooker outlined what we are likely to expect from both sides at lineout time when they cross paths at the Parc des Princes.

"You could have 100% of your ball against South Africa, if you want to win it at the front," he said. "The way they defend, they block the middle and back off.

"I looked back at how Ireland played against South Africa in November. The same forwards coaches are there.

"Ireland (in November) threw the ball over the 15-metre line quite a bit, but that invited the South African backs on to us. It’s going to be interesting how we vary things up."

Jackman suggests that Ulster hooker Herring, quite often the man entrusted on the bench, is the best thrower and the best set-piece technician at Ireland’s disposal, but the selection of Sheehan (if fit) and Kelleher for Saturday’s match-day 23 would represent a more dynamic and daring