Variety key for Sexton if Irish are to lay World Cup ghosts to rest

Variety is the key if Ireland are to finally make an impact at the Rugby World Cup or they have "got to be able to beat different teams playing different games", said their captain Johnny Sexton.

The 37-year-old flyhalf inspired the Irish to a historic away series win over New Zealand earlier this year.

However, he says his number one ranked side in the world need to adapt their game plan against world champions South Africa - who adding extra spice to the Test are in the same World Cup pool - on Saturday at Lansdowne Road.

A year out from the World Cup Sexton is all too aware of Ireland's dreams of glory ending in bitter disappointment - they have yet to reach the semi-finals of the sport's quadrennial showpiece.

The criticism of former coach Joe Schmidt despite guiding them to the 2018 Six Nations Grand Slam was his tactics were too rigid and once opponents got the measure of them there was no alternative plan.

His successor Andy Farrell has given the team more freedom to think on their feet during games.

"Obviously we referred to the summer series as the biggest test you can face in rugby," said Sexton of the All Blacks tour.

"It is in many ways. But it is a different test coming this Saturday.

"If we want to do special things over the next 12 months we have got to be able to beat different teams playing different games and they are very different to New Zealand.

"They are almost unique. They are the nearest team to England maybe in terms of how they play.

"It will be tough."

Sexton says his time in France with Racing 92 (2013-15) playing against big physical teams helps him when he confronts the Springboks.

"What I learned was, when you're playing against teams like that you need to be so together," he said.

"You need to be on