Now we know. Ireland have been drawn in Pool A for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Joining them will the host nation Japan and Six nations rivals Scotland.
It's @irishrugby into Pool A #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/ZG5W44KdLH
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) May 10, 2017
The reaction to the draw has been mostly positive, with people pleased to see Ireland avoid the likes of South Africa, Argentina and France.
i don't know much about rugby but ireland have got a lovely group there #RWC2019
— mark tugwell (@MaarkTugwell) May 10, 2017
Jeez @Scotlandteam will be delighted with that draw..... 😏
— Brian O'Driscoll (@BrianODriscoll) May 10, 2017
@IrishRugby coach Joe Schmidt gives his thoughts on Pool A opponents and hosts the #BraveBlossoms following the #RWC2019 draw. pic.twitter.com/gQMbBOG2iV
— Kyodo News Sports (@kyodo_sports_en) May 10, 2017
Scotland and Japan! #result #RugbyWorldCup
— John Duggan (@JohnDugganSport) May 10, 2017
If Joe Schmidt was GAA coach " ah sure look we have serious respect for Japan there's great work going on there " #RWC2019
— Oisin Langan (@oisinlangan) May 10, 2017
Jamie Heaslip was happy with the outcome.
Jamie Heaslip punched the air when Ireland were drawn in pool one with Scotland and Japan. "We are happy with it. There are tougher groups."
— Alex Lowe 📰 (@AlexMLowe) May 10, 2017
Some said Schmidt's men would have no excuses going into the tournament.
No excuses for Ireland.
— Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) May 10, 2017
Get a chance to look at Japan this summer and know Scotland very well. #RWC2019
And there was also a word of caution - especially considering Ireland's recent Six Nations loss to Scotland.
Ireland happy to get Scotland instead of South Africa, France or Wales. Be careful what you wish for...
— Tom English (@TEnglishSport) May 10, 2017
That Rugby World Cup draw for Ireland was good but I wouldn't be thinking of a semi final yet, not by any means.
— Jonathon (@ItsOnlyJk) May 10, 2017
- Pool A - Ireland, Scotland, Japan, Europe 1, play-off winner.
- Pool B - New Zealand, South Africa, Italy, Africa 1, repechage winner.
- Pool C - England, France, Argentina, Americas 1, Oceania 2.
- Pool D - Australia, Wales, Georgia, Americas 2, Oceania 1.