Williams’ axing from the Welsh squad – having won 98 caps – raised more than a few eyebrows in the Principality but if Warburton felt any pressure he didn’t show it.

The 22-year-old took his international caps tally to 14 while also notching his first try in the welsh jersey – crossing in the 24-16 win in Rome.

However his campaign was cut short when a knee injury forced him to be withdrawn in the final clash, a 28-9 mauling against France, and reports suggest the Blues flanker will be out for four to six weeks.

That setback certainly rules Warburton out of the regular Magners League season while he will also struggle to be fit for the play-offs should the Blues qualify.