Andy Farrell's decision to draft Johnny Sexton into the Ireland camp in a mentoring role was one that caught his former team-mate Tommy Bowe by surprise, who wonders if it is too soon after the legendary fly-half retired.
Ireland are due to host New Zealand, Argentina, Fiji and Australia this month.
The youngster demonstrated he had nerves of steel during the recent age-grade Six Nations, calmly kicking late penalties for the Irish to win away in France in the opening round of a campaign that finished with his team unbeaten in five matches but denied the title due to England having collected an extra bonus point along the way.
Imagine what the burgeoning Toulouse tyro could do wearing the white jersey of his country.
Jack Crowley's seamless ascent to the number 10 jersey has assuaged the great man's retirement.
Ireland fly-half Jack Crowley is taking the challenge of filling Johnny Sexton’s shoes in his stride and “could go far”, according to team-mate James Lowe.
The 25-year-old will captain the reigning Six Nations champions against Italy.
Ireland assistant coach Mike Catt insists there is plenty more to come from rookie fly-half Jack Crowley ahead of his maiden Guinness Six Nations appearance in Dublin.
The Munster pivot slipped easily into the fabled number 10 jersey vacated by Johnny Sexton.
Sexton starred on his first competitive appearance since Six Nations Grand Slam success in March.