Six Nations: Sam Prendergast starts for Ireland, Joe McCarthy injured

Ireland interim-coach Simon Easterby has named his first side ahead of their opening Six Nations clash with England in Dublin on Saturday, with Sam Prendergast chosen at fly-half ahead of Jack Crowley.

Powerful lock Joe McCarthy has been ruled out of the Test with an injury, with James Ryan partnering Tadhg Beirne in the second-row.

Easterby takes over from Andy Farrell, who will lead the British & Irish Lions on their tour of Australia this summer.

Ireland:

Andrew Porter, Rónan Kelleher, Finlay Bealham, James Ryan, Tadhg Beirne, Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris (captain), Jamison Gibson-Park, Sam Prendergast, James Lowe, Bundee Aki, Garry Ringrose, Mack Hansen, Hugo Keenan.

Replacements: Dan Sheehan, Cian Healy, Thomas Clarkson, Iain Henderson, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley, Robbie Henshaw.

Source: espn.com

Andy FarrellAustraliaCaelan DorisEnglandIreland