Preview: Ireland vs Canada

Pool D gets underway today with Ireland taking on Canada at the Millennium Stadium. Joe Schmidt has named a strong side for the game, with only Robbie Henshaw missing as he recovers from a hamstring injury. The boys in green will be looking to put behind the two defeats they suffered in the World Cup warm ups to Wales and England with an opening win today. Canada come into this one not in the greatest of form having lost all their games in the Pacific Nations Cup and suffering a heavy defeat to Fiji in their last warm-up.

History between the pair:

16 Jun 2013 Canada 14 - 40 Ireland

23 May 2009 Canada 6 - 25 Ireland

08 Nov 2008 Ireland 55 - 0 Canada

17 Jun 2000 Canada 27 - 27 Ireland

30 Nov 1997 Ireland 33 - 11 Canada

30 May 1987 Canada 19 - 46 Ireland

Key Man: Jonny Sexton. When he's on form, Ireland are generally on form. The fly half has developed into one of the best fly-half's in the game and he is vital for Ireland.

One to watch: DTH Van Der Merwe. Glasgow fans know all about him and he comes into the tournament with a bit of form for his country. 2 tries in his last outing against Fiji and if given space he can be dangerous.

Head to head: Paul O'Connell & Jamie Cudmore. Will be interesting to see how these 2 face off against eachother. The 2 captains are both very physical and are both very important to their country.

BOD's prediction: Ireland. The boys in green will have too much for Canada with their full 15 out. Could be a long day for Canada if Ireland play to their full potential.