Simon Easterby has insisted the Irish system is the best route to success for ambitious players – as speculation continues to rage around Jack Crowley’s future. The Munster out-half will get his first start of this year’s Six Nations in Rome tomorrow,

Jack knows how important he is to us. Regardless of selection across the last four games, he understands the role that he has and the standing he has in the group.

IRELAND INTERIM HEAD coach Simon Easterby said they are “confident” that Jack Crowley will sign a new deal to stay in Irish rugby beyond the end of this season. Munster out-half Crowley’s current contract expires this summer and English club Leicester have made an approach for the 25-year-old.