Ireland’s interim head coach Simon Easterby has named 21-year-old Sam Prendergast at out-half for Saturday’s Six Nations opener against England at the Aviva Stadium, marking the young player’s championship debut.

Prendergast, who impressed during the November series, has been selected ahead of Jack Crowley who started during last year’s Six Nations triumph. The decision follows strong provincial performances from both players, with Crowley named among the replacements.
Ryan Baird starts in the second row following Joe McCarthy’s injury-enforced absence, with Iain Henderson providing cover from the bench. Caelan Doris will captain the side from number eight, while the experienced center pairing of Garry Ringrose and Bundee Aki get the start ahead of Robbie Henshaw.
According to The Journal, the forward pack sees Andrew Porter, Rónan Kelleher, and Finlay Bealham forming the front row, with James Ryan and Tadhg Beirne completing the second row. Josh van der Flier joins Baird and Doris in the back row.
The backline features Hugo Keenan at fullback, with Mack Hansen and James Lowe on the wings, while Jamison Gibson-Park partners Prendergast at half-back.
Kick-off is scheduled for 4:45pm on Saturday, with the match broadcast live on Virgin Media One.