And with the 21-year-old prop part of the 42-man England squad for the summer tour to South Africa Quins boss Conor O’Shea believes Stuart Lancaster is a lucky man.

Marler was part of the squad for the RBS 6 Nations but didn’t make his England debut and O’Shea said: “Joe Marler has been a special talent for a long time.

"He is 21. He will still learn lessons but he learns quickly. In the loose, in his carries and in his tackling he is a very unique talent and England are lucky to have him."

While Marler was stealing the show for Quins another England star of the future was further underlining his star quality with a starring display as Leicester reached the Twickenham showpiece for the eighth successive year – beating Saracens 24-15.

Tigers No. 10 George Ford – replacing injured England fly-half Toby Flood – kicked 14 points and helped create both of his side's scores as they downed the reigning champions.

Owen Farrell, a contemporary of 2011 world junior player of the year Ford, and England’s incumbent kicker, booted 15 points for Sarries but it was not enough.

But it was Ford who stole the show – not that he was about to get ahead of himself and plan for a Premiership final starting spot.

Flood was ruled out with an ankle injury and Ford said: “It was touch and go but Cockers told me to prepare as if I was playing.

“Hopefully Floody will be fit to give us our best shot,” said Ford. “It's all about the team.”