Time heals all wounds.

2019 was certainly a year to forget for Ireland – especially given the incredible events of 2018. The men in green went from Grand Slam champions one year to defeat on the opening day against England at home the next.

They recovered somewhat with wins over Scotland, Italy and France but it was clear something was wrong. And that defeat to Wales on the final day of last year’s championship said it all. Ireland were no longer a team to be feared. They had run out of ideas.

And while they got back on track somewhat again in the Rugby World Cup warm-ups with back-to-back wins over Wales, the tournament itself was another disaster. Defeat to Japan in the pool stages, out at the quarter-final stages to New Zealand.

But time heals all wounds and 2020 is another year. Andy Farrell has been installed as head coach following Joe Schmidt’s departure and a fresh batch of talent has been called up. A new cycle has begun.

Up first it’s a visit of Scotland to Dublin and with World Rugby now set to seed teams for the 2023 Rugby World Cup following the November internationals – results are needed.

Ireland are currently ranked fifth in the world – one spot below band 1, the highest position you can attain ahead of the draw. And getting into one of those top seeding spots has to be the minimum expectation over the next few months.

And it all starts tomorrow. If that doesn’t get you pumped up then this promo from Virgin Media certainly will.