Australia vs Ireland: Simon Easterby expects ‘markers’ from hosts in Sydney

Ireland coach Simon Easterby said he expected Australia to try and “push themselves” in Saturday’s Nations Championship opener in Sydney (11:00 BST).

Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies host Ireland in the first of three summer matches in the new competition before Andy Farrell’s side play Japan and New Zealand.

Farrell led the British and Irish Lions on a successful tour of Australia last year and Ireland won 46-19 when the sides met in Dublin in November.

Easterby, who said all 36 players were training in Sydney, said it was “exciting” to face Australia, who will host the Rugby World Cup next year.

“We’re expecting a team that’s got a chance to maybe build on a World Cup year and play at home for the first time in a while,” Easterby said.

“They are a physical team who will try to impose themselves on the opposition.

“That’s something we’re well aware of, their threat and ability to attack and attack in a way that can create opportunities.”

Easterby believes the selection battle against Australia will be a tough one with 36 players traveling to the southern hemisphere and says the squad has a “great mix” of youth and experience.

“It’s going to be an interesting few weeks in terms of selection as some of the more experienced players are training well but some of the younger guys have also made their mark.

“I think it’s a testament to the team that none of us missed training. We didn’t look after them, they worked hard and they hit the ground running.”