Garry Ringrose: Ireland centre relishing 'first crack' against South Africa

Garry Ringrose is almost a 50-cap veteran but Saturday's autumn opener will be the first time the Ireland centre has faced South Africa.

Ringrose was recovering from shoulder injury when the Springboks last visited Dublin in 2017, Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw lining up in midfield as Ireland dished out a 38-3 hiding to a visiting side that were in utter disarray.

The latest meeting at the Aviva Stadium will be a much closer affair, with the world champions naming an attacking line-up that includes Cheslin Kolbe at full-back and Damian Willemse at out-half, while the famed 'Bomb Squad’ returns with a six-two split on the bench.

"I only saw the team when I came out after training," said Ringrose, who is expected to win his 45th Ireland cap on Saturday. "They’ve named a strong squad but they could have picked any number of permutations.

"I haven’t played against them before. I have obviously played against a few of the guys at club level but it’s my first crack against South Africa so it’s exciting."

Superb footwork from Garry Ringrose – and a great reach - moves Leinster back in front against the Sharks, but once again their lead is short-lived. #LEIvSHA #BKTURC