‘People think we hate each other’ – Prendergast on Crowley battle

Sam Prendergast claims that, as much as people would like to believe that Ireland’s Jack Crowley and Sam Prendergast “has a good relationship,” they have a good relationship.

Prior to Crowley, who came off the bench in the 27-22 victory over Ireland, was Prendergast, who made his Six Nations debut.

After Jamison Gibson-Park and Bundee Aki’s conversions, Prendergast scored the crucial try in Dublin that would have for the first time.

In the 58th minute, Crowley took the 21-year-old’s place and helped guide Simon Easterby’s side to a successful Six Nations title defense.

“I think it’s quite healthy competition. Jack is a great lad and a great player”, said Prendergast.

“We both just work together, as much as people want to think we hate each other.

After Johnny Sexton retired following the Rugby World Cup of 2023, it has been debated whether Leinster fly-half Prendergast or Munster fly-half Crowley will take on one of Ireland’s most influential players for the long term.

Prendergast says he only feels” internal pressure “as he looks to cement his place as Ireland’s starting fly-half, and added it would be” awkward “if he didn’t get on with Crawley and Ciaran Frawley, who is another option at 10.

The only things I feel are what is inside of me and what is inside the group.

“Obviously you want to be the starting 10 for Ireland and Leinster, but I wouldn’t be listening to too much outside noise.

” It’s internal pressure, you want to be starting but there’s not too much of a rivalry with us. We work quite well together. “

Prendergast added that the trio’s kicking practices will only advance them together when they are not on the field.

” It would be a bit awkward if we didn’t get along. We all travel together while driving the same car.

“We all get along very well and share ideas in training or in other similar situations,” he said.

Prendergast acknowledged that his Six Nations debut featured “some loose kicking and passing combined with some strong link-up play.”

The youngster claimed he was used to being on the receiving end of opposition players, but that England has targeted him numerous times.

” It’s hard to know what sort of vibe I’m giving off, “Prendergast said on his calm demeanour.

” At times you might get a little bit flustered.

It’s pretty difficult to stay calm at all times because it’s a high-contact sport with a lot of moving parts, but I try my best to do so.

He continued, “It’s part of the game,” noting that teams frequently target fly-halves regardless of their age.

“You learn it when you’re coming up and playing gaelic football, soccer and rugby when you are younger. It’s part of the game.

People will try different things to you when you’re 14 or 15 years old, and you learn how to respond to them, what works for you, and what doesn’t.

“I’ve learnt over time. You may get it wrong at times, and I’m sure there will be others, but you just move on and make an effort to avoid getting it wrong again.