Ireland v Australia: Joe Schmidt returns to the Aviva as Andy Farrell looks to bow out before Lions break with win

PENDERGAST GETS THE NOD FOR IRELAND:

Andy Farrell announced his team to take on Australia at 2pm on Thursday, with the side restored to full strength and a big vote of confidence for a certain young out-half. Ronan Kelleher returns at hooker alongside props Andrew Porter and Finlay Bealham. James Ryan is recalled to partner Joe McCarthy in the second-row, as Tadgh Beirne shifts back to blindside flanker. The in-form Josh van der Flier starts at openside, with skipper Caelan Doris in his usual Number 8 role.

Jamison Gibson-Park links up with 21-year-old prodigy Sam Prendergast who retains the out-half jersey after his strong showing against Fiji. Bundee Aki plays on the inside of Robbie Henshaw in midfield, with James Lowe restored to the left wing, Mack Hansen on the right and Hugo Keenan at full-back. A powerful bench includes the impressive Gus McCarthy, Cian Healy on the verge of becoming Ireland’s most-capped player, and Tom O’Toole. The 5:3 split is rounded off with Iain…