21-year-old out-half Sam Prendergast is set to make his Six Nations debut for Ireland against England on Saturday. Prendergast has impressed in recent games and is expected to start at number 10.
Sam Prendergast , the 21-year-old out-half, is poised to make his Six Nations debut as part of Ireland 's starting lineup against England on Saturday in Dublin. Prendergast has impressed in Ireland 's last two games of the November series, starting against Fiji and Australia. His strong performance for Leinster has earned him the nod over Jack Crowley, who was last year's starting out-half during Ireland 's Six Nations triumph.
Crowley delivered a stellar performance for Munster against Northampton recently, reminding interim head coach Simon Easterby of his capabilities. However, Prendergast's consistent form has secured him the starting position, with Crowley likely to come off the bench as he did against Australia. This upcoming Six Nations debut and first start would mark another significant milestone in Prendergast's rapid ascent. The Kildare native only recently played for the Ireland U20s in the summer of 2023.Prendergast is anticipated to partner Jamison Gibson-Park in the halfbacks against England. Other familiar Irish backs, including Bundee Aki, James Lowe, and Hugo Keenan, are also expected to feature in the starting lineup. Mack Hansen appears to have solidified his position on the right wing, holding off the challenge from Calvin Nash. The Irish midfield selection remains a point of contention. However, Aki's physical presence is likely to secure him a starting berth, possibly alongside either Garry Ringrose or Robbie Henshaw. With Tadhg Furlong sidelined due to injury, Finlay Bealham is set to start at tighthead prop. Andrew Porter and Rónan Kelleher could complete the front row. Dan Sheehan, who recently recovered from injury, might make his return off the bench. The back five of the scrum is a highly competitive area. Ireland is considering a shift back to the second row for Tadhg Beirne, who has been deployed at blindside flanker recently. This potential move could result in either James Ryan or Joe McCarthy taking a bench role. Easterby's decision at blindside flanker will be closely watched, especially if Beirne doesn't start there. Jack Conan has rejoined the squad in strong form after missing the previous two campaigns. Peter O'Mahony brings his wealth of experience and lineout expertise. Ryan Baird, who has put in significant effort to become a lineout specialist, is another strong contender. No matter how Easterby finalizes the back five, Ireland will have a wealth of quality replacements available. Josh van der Flier and captain Caelan Doris provide excellent form in the starting back row. Cian Healy, Thomas Clarkson, Conor Murray, and Crowley are all likely to be included among the substitutes. However, the number 23 shirt remains a subject of speculation. The versatile Jamie Osborne has been in excellent form. Alternatively, Ireland might opt for one of their frontline centers - Aki, Ringrose, or Henshaw - who miss out on the starting XV. Ireland plans to announce their matchday 23 at midday on Thursday
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