"It's A Surprise, It's A Big Call" Keith Earls On Irish Fly-Half Debate
"It's A Surprise, It's A Big Call" Keith Earls On Irish Fly-Half Debate
Keith Earls reacts to Sam Prendergast starting over Jack Crowley against Australia, praising both fly-halves and predicting a bright future for Irish rugby.
Ireland rugby legend Keith Earls has expressed surprise at head coach Andy Farrell’s decision to start 21-year-old Sam Prendergast at fly-half against Australia on Saturday, leaving experienced Jack Crowley on the bench.
The Aviva Stadium showdown promises to be a pivotal moment for Prendergast, who earned his test debut this month against Argentina and made his first start against Fiji.
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“It’s a surprise, yeah, it’s a big call,” said Earls, reacting to the selection.
Crowley, 24, was Ireland’s first-choice No.10 during this year’s Six Nations triumph and has started 12 of his 19 appearances for the national team. The Cork native has faced scrutiny recently, but Earls remains steadfast in his belief in Crowley’s potential.
“Jack has had a lot of unfair criticism over the last couple of months,” Earls noted. “Anyone coming in after Johnny [Sexton] was always going to feel the heat. Johnny was a once-in-a-generation talent, and people need to let Jack find his own way. Despite ups and downs, I still 100% think Jack is the man.”
However, Earls acknowledged Farrell’s strategy to test younger players during this non-Six Nations window.
With Farrell set to take a sabbatical to coach the British and Irish Lions in 2025, this November series could provide critical development opportunities.
“If there’s a time to give players exposure, it’s now,” Earls said. “Prendergast is an unbelievable talent. I watched him last week, and he’s going to be a special player. It’s going to be a great battle between him and Jack for the next 10 years.”
Earls also highlighted Crowley’s standout moments, including a decisive drop goal against Leinster earlier this year, as proof of his big-game credentials. He urged patience and support for the Munster playmaker, drawing parallels to Sexton’s own late emergence at 24.
Looking ahead, Earls is optimistic about Ireland’s depth at fly-half. “With both Jack and Sam, Ireland will be in a great place for years to come.”
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