Ireland v Australia: Sam Prendergast on Jack Crawley, Johnny Sexton and the Wallabies.

Prendergast was thrust into senior international rugby last year without starting a European Champions Cup match for Leinster.

Jack Crawley, who played every minute of Ireland’s winning 2024 Six Nations campaign, has been usurped and has remained in place for much of this year’s tournament on the back of a lively debate among Irish rugby fans online.

However, after starting victories over England, Scotland and Wales, he was dropped following a dismal 42-27 defeat to France which ultimately ruined Ireland’s bid for a third successive title.

Prendergast missed the British and Irish Lions squad and was unable to wrest the Ireland jersey away from Crawley in the All Blacks’ defeat in Chicago two weeks ago and last week’s win over Japan.

Prendergast, who admitted he was “disappointed” with his performance as a substitute against New Zealand, said: “If any of us were getting stuck in the rotation over the last year, I think that’s selfish, as both of us would say we’re selfish.”

“I think we both agree that it’s important to stay positive and try to contribute to the team the best we can.

“Jack played very well in the first two games and started the season really well. We both get along very well and share the same ambitions, it’s not difficult to keep going. As I said, if either of us falters due to rotation, it’s completely selfish.”