Sam Burgess is such a natural talent it won't take him long to adjust to union, according to England's most successful rugby league convert since Jason Robinson.
England winger Chris Ashton, who made the switch from Super League's Wigan to rugby in 2007, believes South Sydney NRL star Burgess has the ability to make an almost instant splash when he joins Bath in October.
Plenty have tipped Burgess to be a success in rugby but many doubt if he'll be up to speed in time for the 2015 World Cup in England in September-October.
"I'm sure he's getting the help he needs now, but he's such a natural rugby player he'll make things happen," said dual international Ashton.
"He won't take much bedding in time because his size and the threat he poses in league make him a completely different kettle of fish."
Burgess, who signed a three-year rugby deal, is viewed by many as the missing piece in England's midfield puzzle with the Rabbitohs forward earmarked for the No.12 jersey when he makes the switch.
England have plenty of options in the centres but have struggled find the right combination.
While Ashton and 2003 World Cup-winning winger Robinson have made successful transitions to rugby, several other Great Britain or England league internationals have struggled with the move.
But Ashton has no doubt Burgess can succeed in the 15-man game.
"Sam's an exception. If you watch him play league, he's the best player on the pitch every single time," Ashton said.
"There aren't many players like that - he's up there with Sonny Bill Williams and people like that."
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