DUBLIN — The Irish rugby team has shown confidence in young flyhalf Sam Prendergast, granting him his second consecutive start against Australia this Saturday. This match will also see veteran player Cian Healy achieving a historic milestone with a national record of 134 appearances.

Prendergast, who debuted for Ireland as a substitute in the recent match against Argentina, earned his first start last weekend against Fiji. Despite facing competition from Jack Crowley, who had previously started in matches against both New Zealand and Argentina, Prendergast retained his position at No. 10, marking a significant moment in his burgeoning career.

Cian Healy, at 37, will surpass the 133 caps currently shared with rugby legend Brian O’Driscoll if he comes off the bench in Dublin. Healy’s journey with the national team began back in 2009 during a match against the Wallabies.

Ireland’s head coach, Andy Farrell, praised Healy’s contributions, stating, “Cian is a giant of Irish rugby, and we are determined to provide him with a performance that he deserves.”

On the other hand, Australia’s tour of the home unions kicked off with a pair of victories over England and Wales, but ended with a disappointing loss to Scotland, halting their quest for a Grand Slam for the first time since 1984.

The Irish lineup for the match includes: Hugo Keenan, Mack Hansen, Robbie Henshaw, Bundee Aki, James Lowe, Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park; Caelan Doris (captain), Josh van der Flier, Tadhg Beirne, James Ryan, Joe McCarthy, Finlay Bealham, Ronan Kelleher, and Andrew Porter. The reserves consist of Gus McCarthy, Cian Healy, Tom O’Toole, Iain Henderson, Peter O’Mahony, Craig Casey, Jack Crowley, and Garry Ringrose.