Jack Crowley went into Munster’s senstional URC win over Leinster at Croke Park with a major opportunity and it is safe to say he seized it.

The Cork native was controversially dropped for Leinster tyro Sam Prendergast for the 2025 Six Nations Championship in what was an underwhelming campaign for Ireland.

Crowley came up against Prendergast for the URC interpro in Dublin and stepped up to the occasion, dictating some phenonemal play for the underdogs.

He played aggressive to the line, creating opportunities for his from his boot – including the kick that set Tom Farrell away for his excellent try.

It was an audition of sorts for the 25-year-old, who is hoping to beat Prendergast to the number 10 shirt when Ireland’s November Tests get underway; starting with New Zealand in Chicago.

He showed serious capability in defence, with good footwork to evade Jamison Gibson-Park in the backfield and putting in his fair share of tackles. He was clincial from the tee, too.

Unseen Jack Crowley moment shows Ireland credentials

Recommended

But it was one unseen moment in which the Munster talisman also showed his class.

As highlighted by Irish Independent journalist Cian Tracey on Twitter, Crowley showed his leadership skills at the break.

As Munster held on to their 21-7 advantage, and Leinster made their way down the tunnel, Crowley had other ideas.

He reportedly kept his teammates on the pitch despite the half-time entertainment getting underway, rousing them with a speech as they formed a huddle.

It was a tough day at the office for Prendergast, meanwhile, as Leinster failed to break down Munster’s outstanding defensive resolve.

Former Ireland internationals Ian Madigan and Simon Zebo were definitive when weighing up the Irish out-half selection debate on Premier Sports.

Madigan: There was loads of brilliance in this game from Jack.

Zebo: He was world class out there, he was a cut above the rest. It is not just his run threat or ability to side-step, his game management has gone through the roof… he is culminating into a world class 10 firing on all cylinders. If he keeps on going on this trajectory he has to be number one.

Madigan: When you don’t take summer holidays and train when your friends are sunning themselves it is worth it for a night like tonight. Full credit to him, he deserves every bit of it.

Andy Farrell will surely be taking note.

SEE ALSO: Tom Farrell Makes Ireland Omission Look Baffling With Munster Wonder Try