Joe Schmidt enjoying selection headaches

Ireland coach Joe Schmidt has admitted that it is pleasing to have so many selection issues, after picking his team for their World Cup opener against Canada.

Schmidt answered the biggest selection issue by choosing to start Iain Henderson in the second row ahead of Devin Toner, while Dave Kearney has earned the right to secure a spot on the wing.

Injuries have also played a key role in Schmidt's plans, with Robbie Henshaw missing the match in Cardiff due to a hamstring problem.

"For Dave, he was playing and playing very well so he deserves an opportunity," he told reporters.

"Iain Henderson, likewise, has played very, very well. At the same you go back over the last two seasons and Devin Toner has done a fantastic job for us as well. I know there is going to be a real contest around the second row.

"Hopefully everyone stays sound and keeps those headaches at the forefront of our thinking."

France, Italy and Romania will also stand in the way of Ireland in Pool D.