In rugby as in politics, key decisions still made at No 10

As we contemplate the prospect and the implications of a second all-French European final in three years, fans of the Irish provinces might be wondering what their sides must do to get back to the continent’s top table.

It’s easy if lazy to imagine a French-dominated Champions Cup in years to come, but the key to Irish success lies not in how deep their pockets are, but who is controlling things from number 10.

Ulster will only get stronger with Paddy Jackson developing all the time - he’ll be the real deal in less than 24 months. Leinster will have Johnny Sexton back, and he will boss games. Munster should have Tyler Bleyendaal to add much-needed competition for Ian Keatley after the much-unwanted loss of JJ Hanrahan. With so much going through the out-half, the provinces’ fortunes will be determined by how good the guy in the number 10 shirt is.