James Ryan braced for titanic Etzebeth battle

Ireland vice-captain James Ryan is determined to impose himself on South Africa's formidable pack as he prepares to go toe to toe with the world-class talents of Eben Etzebeth.

Towering lock Etzebeth has recovered from a shoulder injury sustained in the Springboks' Rugby World Cup opener against Scotland in time for Saturday evening's mouthwatering Paris showdown.

The 31-year-old star will be backed up by an imposing bench comprising a seven-one split of forwards and backs.

Leinster second row Ryan has "huge respect" for Etzebeth but is fully focused on producing his own big-game performance at Stade de France.

"He's one of the best locks in the world, definitely, without doubt," said Ryan. "He's pretty much the complete second row.

"He's got a good work rate, a good set-piece player, very good in the air in terms of line-out defence, a great feel for the game. A huge player for them.

"You've obviously got huge respect for them but I think big games are about making sure you impose yourself on the game.

"Respect them and understand their strengths and everything but you've got to bring it back to yourself and making sure you get all your bits right so that you can put in a good account of yourself."

Ireland warmed up for the world champions by confidently dispatching Romania and Tonga in bonus-point drubbings to stretch their winning streak to 15 matches.

Andy Farrell's men have won 27 of their past 29 Tests, including November's 19-16 success over the Springboks in Dublin.

Ryan is braced for by far the biggest challenge of Ireland's Pool B campaign and admits there is increased pressure and an extra edge during the build-up.

"It's obviously just a big step up," said the 27-year-old.

"They're the reigning world champions, we have a