Sam and Cian Prendergast could start together for the first time for Ireland in Thursday's Six Nations game against France in Paris. Photograph: Billy Stickland/InphoThe Prendergast brothers, Cian and Sam, could be in line to start together in an Ireland team for the first time when the side to face France in Thursday’s Six Nations opener at the Stade de France is unveiled on Tuesday morning in Paris at 9am local time/8am Irish. In addition to younger brother Sam retaining his place at outhalf, which on balance had been expected despite the strong competition from Jack Crowley and Harry Byrne, the signs are that his older brother Cian is also set to start. IRELAND (possible v France): J Osborne; T O’Brien, G Ringrose, S McCloskey, J Stockdale; S Prendergast, J Gibson-Park; J Loughman, D Sheehan, T Clarkson; J McCarthy, T Beirne; C Prendergast, J van der Flier, C Doris (capt). Replacements: R Kelleher, M Milne, F Bealham, J Ryan, J Conan, N Timoney, C Casey, J Crowley.

Source: The Irish Times February 03, 2026 00:27 UTC