O’Driscoll, the leading try-scorer in the championship, has been ruled out of Ireland’s attempt to claim the title for the first time since 2009 after undergoing shoulder surgery after the World Cup.

The absence of the 32-year-old centre has been cushioned at Leinster by the form of Eoin O'Malley, Fergus McFadden and versatile back Luke Fitzgerald.

And after seeing the province storm to the top of the RaboDirect PRO12 table in the absence of their talisman, Heaslip is backing Ireland to cope equally well.

“We're obviously missing a big guy, we're missing our skipper and massive leader and a massive talent on the pitch as well,” he said.

“He's laughing and joking and saying is there a spot for him in the changing-room anymore and stuff like that when we see him about.

“He'll be a big loss but it's an opportunity for other people and guys at Leinster anyway - you've had Eoin O'Malley, Fergus McFadden, I think Lukey (Fitzgerald) had a go at outside centre as well, you've had a couple of other guys there as well and they've all done a fantastic job.

“It's good to see Brian around, he's helping out people like Brendan Macken as well. He's been in the video room helping those guys out, imparting the plethora of wisdom Brian has.”