WATCH: Earls relishing “important game” against All Blacks as RWC approaches

Ireland face New Zealand this Saturday in the Aviva Stadium with the Rugby World Cup on the horizon. Just twelve months removed from the showpiece event, this game offers Joe Schmidt’s side the chance to test themselves against the very best.

For Munster’s Keith Earls, the chance to face the All Blacks is one he is looking forward to, having missed the last couple of clashes through injury, including the famous victory in Soldier Field in 2016.

“2012 was the last time, I’ve only played against them four times. It’s a massive challenge against the number one team in the world. A good chance to test myself.”

Ireland are looking impressive with strength in depth at an all time high but know their toughest test of 2018 faces them on Saturday.

New Zealand have long been the standard bearers in Rugby, winning the previous two world cups. Ireland are on their coattails in terms of Ranking points and a win on Saturday could reduce the gap even further with Ireland holding the number one spot in the rankings coming into the World Cup a very real possibility.

Earls. Acknowledges the importance of the game and is keen to prove Ireland can mix it with the very best in the world as they have throughout 2018.

“It’s an important game. We’re at home. Its number 1 vs number 2 in the rankings and I suppose there’s that bit of an edge to it.”

Check out the full interview below, courtesy of the IrishRugby YouTube channel.

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