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"We know we have our work cut out" - Michael Cheika expecting a battle in Dublin

Michael Cheika's Australia have been based in the RDS this week, ahead of Saturday's clash with I...



"We know we have our work...
Rugby

"We know we have our work cut out" - Michael Cheika expecting a battle in Dublin

Michael Cheika's Australia have been based in the RDS this week, ahead of Saturday's clash with Ireland.

The return to Dublin has been a homecoming of sorts for the Australian. He led Leinster to a Heineken Cup triumph in 2009, winning the Magners League the year before.

Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast's Alan Quinlan ahead of the game, Cheika said he was enjoyed his time back in Ireland.

"It's been really good fun... I haven't had a chance to come back and spend any significant time in the city since I left. It's been really nice to see some faces that I haven't seen in quite a while."

The former number eight, knows his team will be in for a tough game on Saturday. The clash sees the the third and fourth-best teams face off.

"I think Ireland have shown pretty clearly and loudly this season, that they're well and truly capable of going toe-to-toe with any team in World rugby. They're the only team to have beaten the World champions in the last 18 months. We know we have our work cut out. It's tough winning in Europe."

After last weeks win over France, Cheika made six changes to Saturday's team. Although the team is undoubtedly stronger, he admitted it was not due to focusing particularly on the game at the Aviva Stadium.

"You cant just bring guys [on the tour] and not have them play any rugby. It was a good opportunity last week for people to put their hand up [for selection]... Five tests in a row are tough".

While Cheika has many fond memories of his time in Dublin, Ireland fans will hope he will want to forget Saturday's match as quick as possible. 

"We know we have our work cut out" - Michael Cheika expecting a battle in Dublin

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