Ireland coach Andy Farrell has pushed back against “loaded questions” around flyhalf Sam Prendergast’s defensive ability.
The 22-year-old will start for Ireland against the Springboks in Dublin on Saturday.
Prendergast impressed with ball in hand during last week’s 46-19 victory over Australia, but his defence came under scrutiny after Len Ikitau powered through him for the Wallabies’ first try.
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Farrell, however, was having none of the suggestion that the young pivot lacks the physical edge required at Test level.
“I understand the question and it’s a question that keeps popping up,” Farrell said. “But I think Sam’s ability as a flyhalf far outweighs a work-on within his game. I thought he was tremendous last week. His skillset has been fantastic for all to see.
“Everyone’s got work-ons and will continue to have work-ons. That’s up to us as coaches and the rest of the players to keep working on them.”
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When pressed on whether he had spoken to Prendergast directly about his technique, Farrell bristled.
“They’re loaded questions, do you know what I mean? Your question could be asked about any single player. To think we’re focusing on one aspect of one player is not right.
“For example, I spoke to Caelan Doris and Dan Sheehan yesterday – world-class players – and they agree with their work-ons. It’s constant for every single member of every single squad in world rugby.”
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, speaking earlier in the day, also defended Prendergast’s physicality.
“He’s a big fellow. He always wants the ball and he’s got guts,” said Erasmus. “People talk about his tackling, but I’ve seen him go really hard. He looks pretty fit and I think he’s got a toughness about him.”
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Farrell expects that toughness to be thoroughly tested by a South African side riding high after their recent 32-17 win over France in Paris.
“We’ve talked a lot about resilience,” he said. “That’ll get tested to the full this weekend. Matching the Springboks’ physicality has to be a given. If you don’t turn up in that regard, you’re in for a tough afternoon.”
Photo: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile via Getty Images
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