Jack Crowley (centre) was outstanding for Munster in their United Rugby Championship victory against Leinster at Croke Park last Saturday. Photograph: Dan Sheridan/Inpho
It takes time to learn your trade in professional rugby. Jack Crowley is 25 and only beginning to reach his full potential.
He was exceptional for Munster against Leinster at Croke Park last Saturday. I loved his body language behind an aggressive, young Munster pack. So calm, with a hint of a smile after each booming clearance, sidestep or offload.
I’ve watched Jack since he was a teenager in Rockwell College and he’s never played better. He used to heap pressure on himself during the battle with Ben Healy and Joey Carbery to start for Munster. I also remember Ronan O’Gara trying to sign him for La Rochelle.
He was always a special talent. Rog saw it. So does Andy Farrell. It takes time. Setbacks shape an athlete’s career.
Outplaying the man currently in possession of the Ireland 10 jersey in every facet of the game should be enough to command a start against New Zealand at Soldier Field next Saturday.
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