RUGBY The best is yet to come for Ireland

RORY BEST has backed Conor Murray and Johnny Sexton to hit peak form ahead of Ireland’s game against France today.

The half-backs, who will start their 52nd Test together, have struggled thus far.

But skipper Best said: ‘I think they have shown time and time again how good they are. And we have no doubt about that. It’s hard to put into words until you see how much they do, day in, day out.

‘Perhaps there’s a feeling in some places that they are very lucky they are such good rugby players, but they are brilliant because of the work they put in. And the sign of the quality they have is that they have stood the test of time. Whenever they’re not happy with their form they almost double their efforts to get better.’

But he admitted: ‘There’s a real feeling around the squad now that everyone has to take individual responsibility, so we’ve been working on that.

‘Johnny’s the best player in the world and Conor’s arguably the best nine in the world, but we can’t expect the two probable best players in their positions in the world to hold our hands.’

Best, who hinted strongly he will retire after the World Cup, is one of seven changes to the team that beat Italy in Rome.

The captain returns to the pack along with Cian Healy, Iain Henderson, James Ryan, Josh van der Flier and CJ Stander.

And the hooker is gearing up for a physical onslaught.

‘There’s no doubt they offer a massive physical threat. The half-backs are electric and if we don’t cover that area around the ruck they’re going to be breaking out, causing havoc.

‘We’ve got to make sure we win the gain-line and get a handle on the speed of the ruck.’