Shane Jennings: Stop Picamoles and you can stop France

Ireland’s tournament prospects hinge on today’s clash with France, and stifling the fearsome Toulouse number 8 will hold the key

Louis Picamoles. Picture: Getty

Finally, the day has arrived. Ever since the draw was made for Pool D, people have flagged today’s contest as the most important in the tournament for Ireland. Win this game, and we will have an easier quarter-final. It’s as simple as that.

If only it were that simple in reality. First of all let’s give the team and everyone involved some credit. We have already qualified for a quarter-final. Who we play ...