Parisse was due to retire from international rugby following the 2019 World Cup, but was denied his finale when Italy’s final group game of that tournament - against the All Blacks - was cancelled thanks to Typhoon Hagibis.

The Toulon number 8 is, apparently, planning to retire from all rugby at the end of the 2021-22 season, but he clearly fancies one last swansong for Italy during next year’s Six Nations.

While it is acknowleged that Parisse is one of the greatest backrowers to have played the game, whether it is a good idea for him to attempt such a comeback is another matter. Not only is it likely to be incredibly difficult for a 38 year old to return to the international game after more than two years away, I am also not entirely convinced that this would be such a great idea for Italy, who really do need to move on from the Parisse era and start blooding more of their talented youngsters.

And, let’s be honest, if Covid has taught us anything it is to refrain from planning too far ahead. Much can change between now and February and probably will.