Keith Earls in line for century landmark as Andy Farrell names strong Ireland side to face England

The Munster star is named on the bench while Cian Prendergast starts at No 8.

HUDDLE UP: Keith Earls during Ireland Rugby squad training at the Sport Ireland Campus this week. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

Keith Earls is set to earn his 100th Ireland Test cap after being named on the bench in Andy Farrell’s matchday squad to face England at Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

James Ryan will captain Ireland in the absence of suspended skipper Johnny Sexton for this final home match before next month’s Rugby World Cup, while wing Earls, 35, is in line to become his country’s ninth centurion should he feature off the replacements bench.