Ireland v South Africa - All You Need To Know

Five years is as long time to go between meetings for the top Tier 1 nations in rugby, but that's how long it's been since Ireland and South Africa last went head to head.

In that most recent game in 2017 at the Aviva Stadium, you'd have been laughed off if you suggested that the Springboks would go on and win a third World Cup title just two years later, with Ireland 38-3 winners on that occasion.

The prospect of a similar scoreline on either side seems highly unlikely this week, with both sides at close to full strength, and building their way towards the World Cup in France next year, where they will also meet in the pool stage.

Don't expect any shadowboxing either; with many of the Irish team having never played the Boks before, the winning of the game is hugely important, simply to prove to themselves they can win against this type of team.

South Africa's form has been slightly inconsistent this year. At times they've been they've physically dominant selves, but some scattered defeats to Wales, New Zealand and Australia have tainted their season.

Neither side have dominated this fixture in recent history, with Ireland winning six, and the Springboks taking four of their last 10 meetings, while South Africa have an impressive 50% win record from their four games at the Aviva Stadium.

TV

Ireland v South Africa will be live on Virgin Media Two, with coverage getting under way from 4.30pm

RADIO

Saturday Sport on RTÉ Radio 1 will have live commentary, with Michael Corcoran joined by Donal Lenihan at the Aviva Stadium.

ONLINE

RTE.ie/sport will have carry a live blog of the game, followed by a match report, player ratings and post match reaction from the Aviva.

WEATHER

Conditions should hold up reasonably well on Saturday evening in