The Pool Draw for Rugby World Cup 2019 took place in Japan on Wednesday, with Ireland drawn into Pool A with Scotland, Japan, and the to-be-determined Europe 1 qualifier and Play-off qualifier.
Ireland last faced Japan in a World Cup in 1995, winning the Pool D match 50-28.
Ireland haven’t been drawn against Scotland in a World Cup since 1991, with Scotland topping the Pool on that occasion thanks to a 24-15 win over Ireland in the last round of Pool matches.
In Pool B, holders New Zealand will face southern hemisphere rivals South Africa, and Italy, as well at the Africa 1 qualifier and Repechage winner.
Pool C will see England, France and Argentina compete for a place in the knockout stages with the Americas 1 qualifier and the Oceania 2 qualifier.
Finally, in Pool D 2015 runners-up Australia will come up against Wales, Georgia, the Oceania 1 qualifier and the Ameericas 2 qualifier.
Rugby World Cup 2019 – Pool Draw
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, Oceania 1, Americas 2
