There is plenty to look forward to in the world of rugby in 2015, namely the World Cup.

Joe Schmidt's Ireland have hopes of going where no Irish team have gone before by reaching a first semi-final.

But according to the Irish Times' Gerry Thornley, success in 2015 will most likely hinge on the pool match against France, and with the unpredictable nature of French rugby it will come down to which Les Bleus side turns up.

Gerry, who was looking ahead to rugby in 2015 on Off The Ball, also spoke about whether opposition teams will now target Jonny Sexton in the Six Nations and beyond, as well as the players who may achieve prominence.