Following Johnny Sexton’s retirement, Crowley has been entrusted with the iconic jersey, starting in all Six Nations matches and both Tests in South Africa. Leinster’s Sam Prendergast, however, started against Fiji and Australia after featuring in Ireland’s matches against New Zealand and Argentina, while Ciarán Frawley also remains a strong contender, having famously scored the winning drop goal against the Springboks in July.

Although the selection debate has been a frequent topic of conversation, Crowley insists it has served to elevate the players rather than distract them.

“It’s not a distraction at all because the goal is to win games and perform,” he said. “The focus is on the group and how we can make it a special week by getting the win in the end.

“Whoever is in that position, we push each other. By doing that, we’ll hopefully bring out the best in ourselves and take our games to new heights.

“You want to win these games, and any chance to be part of those moments and that team is special.

“The Ireland number 10 jersey has always been iconic. There’s a lot of attention around it, and that’s a credit to the players who have worn it before us.

“It’s exciting to compete for it now, and I think that competition will make us better players and elevate our performances even further.”