'The best team in the world is the one that wins the World Cup', says Stick as Ireland clash looms

Springbok assistant coach Mzwandile Stick, while happy to acknowledge that Ireland is the most consistent rugby nation at present, made it clear the best team can only really be judged by the trophy that matters.

The piece of silverware in question is the William Webb-Ellis Cup that was on display at the SA Rugby Awards that took place on Thursday at Multichoice City in Randburg.

Ireland, who are on course to win a second consecutive Six Nations title despite losing to England last week, relinquishing a chance at a second consecutive Grand Slam, have never advanced past the Rugby World Cup quarter-final stage.