Ireland fans slam Andy Farrell team selection against Italy

After last week’s bruising 36-14 defeat to France in Paris, head coach Andy Farrell has swung the axe, making six alterations to his starting XV in a clear response to that opening-round setback.

Watch the Guinness Six Nations at your local Greene King sports pub.

But while Farrell has freshened things up across the park, it’s the change he hasn’t made that’s dominating the conversation.

Despite growing calls for Jack Crowley to take the reins at out-half, Farrell has stuck with Sam Prendergast at number 10 — a decision that has left a section of supporters fuming.

Social media lit up within minutes of the team announcement.

“Omg ahahaha no Crowley is absolutely ridiculous,” wrote one fan.

Another blasted: “Prendergast should still be playing under 19. Crowley needed.”

“All the changes and still plays Prendergast,” posted a third.

One supporter, claiming to have watched the majority of Prendergast’s recent games, offered a more detailed critique: “I have been at 80% of the games Prendergast has played for Ireland and Leinster over the last two seasons. The issues have gotten worse this year. Yes, he can do some flash stuff but Crowley offers more reliability.”

And perhaps the most cutting comment of all: “Why is Sam Prendergast still starting ahead of Byrne or Crowley this weekend? Looks like Farrell has decided on his World Cup out-half already and is refusing to let other players have a chance. Ridiculous.”

With Ireland desperate to bounce back, all eyes will now be on Prendergast — and whether Farrell’s faith will be rewarded or the backlash will grow louder.