Ireland have dismissed concerns over the fitness of out-half Sam Prendergast ahead of their Six Nations opener against England on Saturday. Prendergast was seen with heavy strapping on his left leg during Monday’s training session in Portugal, leading to speculation over his availability. However, assistant coach Andrew Goodman confirmed that the 21-year-old had been dealing with a minor dead leg injury, but had fully participated in training and was expected to be ready for the weekend’s match.
Goodman reassured the media after Tuesday’s session, saying, “Yeah, he trained fully today, just a little dead leg I believe. I’m sure he’ll be alright.”
Prendergast made his international debut for Ireland in their November victory over Argentina and went on to start in the wins against Fiji and Australia. The Kildare native has continued to impress at the provincial level, rising above Ciarán Frawley and Ross Byrne in Leinster’s out-half rankings this season.
Having worked with Prendergast at Leinster, Goodman has witnessed the young player’s rapid development. “It’s been a great couple of months for Sam,” said Goodman. “Just the game experience he’s managed to gather up both with Ireland, first with Emerging Ireland, then Ireland, then some big Champions Cup games, it’s been a great period for him to get real game experience.”
Goodman praised Prendergast’s growth, noting that the player’s exposure to high-level competition, including matches away to La Rochelle and at home to Bath, has significantly advanced his skills.
In the event that Prendergast’s injury becomes more problematic later in the week, Jack Crowley is expected to step into the starting role at out-half. Crowley wore the 10 shirt for much of 2024 and will be prepared to fill in should the need arise.
Alongside Prendergast and Crowley, versatile Leinster back Ciarán Frawley is also competing for time at out-half, with Goodman highlighting the positive competition between the three players. “The three of them are all great lads, first and foremost, and they all work well together,” Goodman said. “They’re competing hard on the field, but it’s pleasing to see them pushing each other in the right way. They’re sitting together at the hotel going through clips and driving the team forward. It’s great to see, and I’m sure they’ll all have great Test careers ahead.”
With a competitive squad pushing each other for positions, Ireland look set to face England on Saturday with a fully fit team, apart from Tadhg Furlong, who unfortunately had to leave the camp earlier in the week.
