Sam Prendergast Gets First Test Start for Ireland

Sam Prendergast, 21 will start his first Test match this Saturday, adding a new twist to the competition for Johnny Sexton’s number 10 jersey in Ireland’s squad. His journey to this point has been eventful. Jack Crowley, who stepped in as Sexton’s deputy during the World Cup, started every match in the Six Nations after Sexton’s retirement and helped Ireland retain their title. However, during the summer series against South Africa, Farrell gave Crowley the nod again but Ciaran Frawley’s dramatic drop-goal in Durban stole the spotlight.

Despite struggles early on at Munster, Farrell kept Crowley as Ireland’s first-choice fly-half for the All Blacks’ visit to Dublin, though neither Crowley nor Frawley impressed in their loss. Now, Sam Prendergast has earned his chance after impressing in limited opportunities including a strong cameo in the Argentina match. Farrell made seven changes for the Fiji game with Prendergast taking center stage as a potential long-term option.

Farrell described Prendergast’s international debut in the second half against Argentina as “excellent,” and now Prendergast will look to make an impact ahead of the Australia clash. Prendergast’s rise has been rapid. Born in Kildare, he spent part of his childhood in Syria where his father served in the Irish Defence Forces. He played underage rugby for Newbridge and Lansdowne before joining Leinster’s academy.

His performances for Ireland’s Under-20s, particularly in the 2023 Grand Slam and World Cup caught the eye of many including rugby legend Sonny Bill Williams. Although still developing, Prendergast’s skill set and maturity for his age have earned him the opportunity to showcase his talent in the Test arena. As he continues to find his voice in the team, he remains focused on improving and determined to make the most of the chance he has received.