The All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has wasted no time in installing Ireland as World Cup favourites following their historic 16-9 win over his New Zealand side in Dublin.
Hansen has hailed Ireland as the "No.1 team in the world" following their win over the reigning world champions.
New Zealand retained their world No.1 status despite losing to No.2 side Ireland but Hansen had claimed before the clash that the winner would swipe the global bragging rights.
It's the first time Ireland have beaten the All Blacks in Ireland and just the second time they have beaten them ever following their win in Chicago two years ago.
Status of best team in the world is on the line in this weekend's test in Dublin according to All Blacks coach Steve Hansen. Photo: Photosport
The All Blacks boss stuck to his word and even labelled Joe Schmidt's Ireland as the front-runners for next year's World Cup.
"As I said earlier in the week this was number one versus number two in the world," said Hansen.
"So as of now they are the number-one team in the world.
"So if you want to make them World Cup favourites, go ahead. I guess they are favourites."
Asked if Ireland are now World Cup favourites, Schmidt said: "The World Cup? In 12 months' time?
"People will I suppose postulate about who's where, who's favourite. It's a nebulous thing for us."
- AAP
