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Ireland recall Jack Crowley as Andy Farrell shakes up Six Nations team

BBC Sport •
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Andy Farrell has recalled Jack Crowley to the Ireland starting lineup for the Six Nations clash against England, making five changes to his initial selection. Crowley, who impressed off the bench against Italy, replaces Sam Prendergast at fly-half. The Munster back-rower will partner Jamison Gibson-Park in a new half-back combination, with Craig Casey dropping to the bench.

Three-time Lions prop Tadhg Furlong returns from a calf injury, partnering new locks Jeremy Loughman and Dan Sheehan in the front row. Farrell has also shifted captain Caelan Doris back to number eight, with Jack Conan and Cormac Izuchukwu making way. This split of five forwards and three backs on the bench marks a tactical shift from the previous two games. Ireland's last visit to Allianz Stadium in 2024 ended in a 23-22 defeat, a result that shattered their Grand Slam hopes. The omission of Edwin Edogbo follows an IRFU investigation into racist abuse he received online after his debut against Italy.

Ireland and England both have one win from their opening two games, setting the stage for a pivotal contest in Rome.