Crowley gets nod for Ireland as Farrell rests Prendergast

Jack Crowley will start at flyhalf for Ireland’s Six Nations match against England at Twickenham today with Sam Prendergast, who started both their opening matches, omitted from the matchday 23.

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Crowley gets his chance after coach Andy Farrell praised his performance, when he came on for Prendergast last Saturday, and inspired a turnaround, steering the Irish to a 20-13 win over Italy.

Farrell had laid into “keyboard warriors” over their comments attacking Prendergast, but after two bruising experiences in the 36-14 hammering by France and the Italy game, the Englishman has given him a break.

Prendergast, 23, misses out on a bench spot as Farrell preferred to call up Ciaran Frawley, who can play in a variety of positions in the backs, while wing Tommy O'Brien is recalled after being omitted from the Italy game.

“Jack Crowley starts because of what we've seen and how he’s come through and performed,’ said Farrell, who added the Munster out-half has been “playing confidently’.