But despite Sexton’s standing ovation when Ronan O’Gara came on to replace him with ten minutes left Kidney does not believe in labelling a first and second choice fly-half.

“In Ireland we are blessed with two very good outside halves in Jonathan and Ronan. It doesn’t matter who plays, the difficulty is who not to pick rather than who to pick,” said Kidney.

“There’s a whole conundrum in making the decision and the important thing is not to bracket it, both players can play different styles of game.

“There are debates all over the pitch but obviously no.10 is a bit of a highlight position, long may the debate continue if the two boys can stay fit and keep at it. Their contribution towards the team and their generosity is what makes us work as a team.”