The equation hasn’t changed for Ireland. Despite a less-than-convincing victory over Italy in Dublin on Saturday, a trip to Twickenham next weekend presents a significant opportunity to build momentum in the Six Nations Championship. While Andy Farrell’s side weren’t entirely convincing in their 20-13 win, the prospect of facing an England team reeling from a defeat to Scotland adds another layer of intrigue to the fixture. The focus now shifts to selection, with Jack Crowley emerging as the frontrunner to start at fly-half.
Ireland’s performance against Italy highlighted both their strengths and vulnerabilities. A sluggish first half and some questionable kicking from the tee raised concerns, but a second-half rally, sparked by impactful substitutions, ultimately secured the win. The question now is whether Farrell will stick with the same starting lineup or opt for changes, particularly at the pivotal number 10 position. The debate surrounding the fly-half role is intensifying, with many believing a change is necessary to unlock Ireland’s full potential.
Crowley’s Impact and the Fly-Half Debate
Former Ireland scrum-half Conor Murray believes Jack Crowley should be given the nod to start against England at Twickenham next Saturday (February 21, 2026), kicking off at 14:10 GMT according to the BBC. Crowley’s introduction in the 56th minute against Italy demonstrably shifted the game’s momentum. He successfully converted Rob Baloucoune’s strive and added a crucial penalty, providing a much-needed injection of composure and accuracy to Ireland’s attack.
Sam Prendergast, who started at fly-half against Italy, struggled with his kicking accuracy, missing two conversions. This prompted Murray to suggest that Farrell may consider a change, with Crowley and Jamison Gibson-Park as viable options. “I think you do, don’t you?” Murray stated on the Ireland Rugby Social podcast. “I think Crowley starts the next game because he did so well when he came on.”
However, Murray also acknowledged that Crowley’s statistics haven’t been at their peak recently, but his impact off the bench was undeniable. RugbyPass reports that the Virgin Media panel, including Murray, Rob Kearney, and Peter O’Mahony, all agreed Crowley had earned his spot. Prendergast himself is reported to have acknowledged he didn’t have his strongest game according to RugbyPass.
Crowley himself offered insight into the advantage of coming off the bench, noting the opportunity to assess the game’s flow and identify openings in the defense. SportsJOE reports Crowley stating, “I suppose the opportunity you have when you’re on the sideline is you gain to see what way the game is shaping…You can see pictures opening up, so it gives you that chance when you arrive on, you know, to see things and then execute.”
England Awaiting and Ireland’s Concerns
Ireland’s victory over Italy wasn’t without its blemishes. Former international Mike McCarthy highlighted concerns about the Irish scrum, which came under pressure from the Italians, an area requiring immediate attention before facing England as reported by the BBC. England, smarting from a 20-16 defeat to Scotland in their opening match of the Six Nations, will undoubtedly look to exploit any weaknesses in the Irish set-piece.
The Scots’ victory over England at Murrayfield has undoubtedly altered the landscape of the championship. Farrell initially downplayed Ireland’s chances, describing them as outsiders in London, but Scotland’s result has changed the dynamic. Ireland will need to address their scrum issues and find greater consistency in their attack if they are to overcome a determined England side on their home turf.
What’s Next for Ireland?
The coming days will be crucial for Andy Farrell and his coaching staff as they finalize their team selection for the Twickenham clash. All eyes will be on whether Crowley is handed the starting fly-half jersey. Regardless of the personnel choices, Ireland will need to demonstrate a significant improvement in their performance to secure a victory against a wounded England team. The focus will be on tightening up the scrum, improving kicking accuracy, and unleashing a more dynamic attacking game.
What are your thoughts on who should start at fly-half for Ireland against England? Share your opinions in the comments below and let us know what you think Ireland needs to do to win at Twickenham.
