Prendergast Returns as Ireland Makes Four Changes for Australia Test

SYDNEY, July 2 - Ireland has named four changes to its starting XV for its first Nations Championship test against Australia on Saturday.

Sam Prendergast returns at flyhalf, replacing the injured Jack Crowley. His brother, Cian, starts on the flank.

Jamie Osborne moves from fullback to the left wing due to an injury to Tommy O'Brien. Hugo Keenan returns at fullback after a 16-month absence.

James Ryan is back in the second row, pushing Tadhg Beirne to the bench. Dan Sheehan will captain the side from hooker.

Stuart McCloskey continues at centre despite a recent hamstring injury.

Ireland Team: Hugo Keenan, Rob Baloucoune, Garry Ringrose, Stuart McCloskey, Jamie Osborne, Sam Prendergast, Jamison Gibson-Park, Jack Conan, Josh van der Flier, Cian Prendergast, James Ryan, Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Furlong, Dan Sheehan (c), Tom O'Toole.

Replacements: Ronan Kelleher, Jeremy Loughman, Thomas Clarkson, Tadhg Beirne, Nick Timoney, Craig Casey, Ciaran Frawley, Bundee Aki.