Ireland could be without their star-man heading into September's World Cup.
The decision of Johnny Sexton's EPCR disciplinary hearing will not be known until next week, as deliberations over the case run through the weekend.
A three man panel was established by the EPCR to investigate allegations that Sexton used abusive language towards match officials at half time in Leinster's Champions Cup Final heartbreak.
The panel began proceedings on Thursday, but it now appears to be stretching on as the lengthy 55 day process extends even further.
For Sexton, this September's Rugby World Cup in France will be the swan song not only in the green of Ireland, but of his career.
At 38 years of age, the Leinster fly-half has won everything on offer over the course of his glittering career. However, the Webb Ellis Cup is the one piece of silverware which eludes him.
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Any ban which sees Sexton miss out on World Cup minutes would be a major blow for Ireland. (Credit: Sportsfile)[/caption]
Ireland's response to potential Sexton absence:
Now though, following his actions at the Aviva Stadium on May 20th, Sexton is starring down the barrel of missing out on the defining moment of this Andy Farrell side's crusade for global dominance.
Should the worst come to pass, and the Ireland captain receives a ban which runs on into the tournament, Farrell is left with an intriguing dilemma at 10.
Of course, neither back-up option in Jack Crowley or Ross Byrne are at the same level as the veteran operator, but they are both seemingly ready and able to make an impact if necessary.
Does Farrell opt for the steady hands of Ross Byrne, a player who has been influenced greatly by Sexton during his time as his understudy at provincial level.
Or, does the Irish head coach lean towards the mercurial talent of Jack Crowley, who has just steered Munster to a first piece of silverware in 12 seasons?
Perhaps a clearer picture will be painted for Irish fans next month, when the warm-up fixtures against Italy, England and Samoa afford Farrell the chance to decide upon his potential Sexton replacement.
The exact length of any ban imposed upon Sexton remains unclear, although it is thought it could very well run in to Ireland's pool stage fixtures which sees the men in green face off against Romania, Tonga, South Africa and Scotland.
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