Right up there.

Former All Blacks coach Sir Graham Henry reckons Ireland and England can challenge for Rugby World Cup honours in 2019. Henry, who lifted the famous trophy with New Zealand in 2011, also reckons South Africa and Australia are much improved.

He has stressed that it’s what rugby needs, as the All Blacks’ dominance is making it boring,

“South Africa may have played the better game, but got beat by a point. I don’t think the gap is too big, which is great,” Henry told the media in Dubai

“It’s what rugby needs. It doesn’t need one team that’s unbeatable, because that’s boring.

“The World Cup is two years away and I was pleased to see Australia and South Africa improve a little in this Rugby Championship series.

“It was pleasing because Australia and South Africa have fallen away pretty poorly in recent times. Their last two games against the All Blacks have been great contests with superb rugby.

“It’s obvious the culture of the South Africa and Australian teams are becoming stronger and I think that’s good for rugby.”

Heading into 2019, Henry has picked out four team he reckons will challenge the All Blacks.

“Going into the next World Cup, for sure I think teams can stop them. England are on a bit of a roll and have lost just one game since Eddie Jones took charge,” he pointed out.

“The All Blacks will be favourites I would imagine, along with England, Ireland, Australia, South Africa … the usual enemies will all be out there!”