Italy have matched their previous all-time best of eighth in the World Rugby Men's Rankings following their 24-21 win over Wales in Cardiff.
Fresh off another Six Nations title, Ireland coach Andy Farrell is eager to show what his charges can do on their tantalising two-match tour of South Africa.
After Wales picked up their first Wooden Spoon in the Six Nations since 2003, head coach Warren Gatland offered to resign.
Leading Ireland to Six Nations glory could be Peter O'Mahony's final act on international rugby's stage.
Ireland secured consecutive Six Nations titles with a hard-fought 17-13 victory over Scotland, ending their opponents' Triple Crown hopes.
Wales suffered the ignominy of a first Six Nations wooden spoon since 2003 after Italy posted a 24-21 victory over them in Cardiff.