Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby has thrown his support behind Sam Prendergast as the young out-half prepares for his first away start in the Guinness Six Nations against Scotland at Murrayfield on Sunday (3pm, live on RTÉ2, RTÉ Player, and RTÉ Radio 1).
The 21-year-old Leinster playmaker has been selected ahead of Jack Crowley for what will be his fifth cap and fourth consecutive start in the tournament. While he has impressed on home soil, this will be his first test away from the Aviva Stadium, facing a Scottish side determined to end a 10-game losing streak against Ireland.
Prendergast has already shown his composure in hostile environments, having helped Leinster secure wins away to Munster, La Rochelle, and Bristol in recent months. Easterby believes those experiences will stand to him in Edinburgh.
“We saw when he left Ireland camp in November and had the opportunity to play away from home with Leinster, he handled those pretty well, didn’t he?” Easterby said after naming his team.
“It’s early days for him, but we know he has unbelievable talent. The expectations on him, from both himself and the outside world, are high right now. We’re trying to support him so he can keep growing, keep enjoying these experiences, and learn from them. They won’t always be perfect, but unless you go through them, you won’t know how to handle them in the future.”
Crowley Pushing for a Start
While Prendergast retains his place, Jack Crowley’s form has increased pressure on the starting 10 spot. The Munster out-half was instrumental off the bench against England, steering Ireland to a 27-22 win after being introduced in the 58th minute.
Easterby admitted the selection was a tough call, but said maintaining continuity while developing Prendergast’s international experience was the right choice for now.
“It was another tough selection call, but we felt it was the right decision in terms of continuity and Sam’s growth. We know Jack is itching to start, and I’m not saying this will remain the selection for the rest of the championship, but this week we felt it was the right thing to do.”
Easterby praised Crowley’s attitude in camp, despite his disappointment.
“Jack is clearly disappointed, but he’s an unbelievable person. He’s so supportive and doesn’t let his disappointment affect his training or how he is in camp. He’s been brilliant with Sam and the rest of the squad.”
O’Mahony Returns to Starting Lineup
Ireland have made two changes from the side that defeated England. Robbie Henshaw replaces Garry Ringrose in midfield, partnering Bundee Aki, while Peter O’Mahony comes in at blindside flanker, with Ryan Baird dropping to the bench.
O’Mahony has endured an injury-hit season, featuring just five times for Munster. However, he recently returned to action in the Investec Champions Cup against Northampton Saints.
Easterby explained the decision to bring the veteran flanker back into the starting lineup.
“We spoke before the England game and, given that Pete had less rugby under his belt, we felt he needed another week to work on conditioning. He supported the team incredibly well last week, and Bairdo’s lineout work was excellent, but Pete brings experience that other players can’t offer right now.”
With a Grand Slam still on the line, Ireland will be hoping Prendergast’s first away start is another step in his rapid rise at international level.