Let’s keep getting better – Johnny Sexton urges Ireland to kick on

Captain Johnny Sexton has warned Ireland against complacency ahead of next year’s World Cup following a momentous series win in New Zealand.

Andy Farrell’s men underlined their credentials for the 2023 tournament in France by clinching a historic tour success against the All Blacks courtesy of Saturday’s pulsating 32-22 victory in Wellington.

Sexton, who surpassed 1,000 career points for his country in the Test decider, has repeatedly said the Irish must not repeat previous mistakes by peaking too soon for a World Cup.

But the influential fly-half also stressed that his side cannot afford to ease off before attempting to hit top form when it matters most.

Following a summer break, Ireland’s players will reconvene for Dublin clashes against world champions South Africa, Fiji and Australia in the autumn before preparing for another shot at Six Nations glory.

“We’ve got a full season to play and it shouldn’t be ‘beat New Zealand and let’s wait for the World Cup’,” said Sexton.

“There’s plenty more to play. There are big home games in November, there’s a Six Nations to play where we still haven’t achieved things we want to achieve in that.

“We got a Triple Crown this year but a championship or better would be something we’re aiming for, so there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be trying to progress and do that.

“It’s very Irish to think ‘oh, we have to take it easy now until the World Cup’. No, let’s keep making the most of it, let’s keep getting better.”

Sexton kicked 12 crucial points at Sky Stadium as Ireland, who lost the Auckland opener before levelling matters in Dunedin, completed a remarkable series turnaround to move top of the world rankings.

He consequently became only the second man – after former number 10 rival