And while their only two defeats in their last 12 games have come at the home of the defending Guinness Premiership champions, Grewcock insists his side have reason for optimism.

“I’d probably say this is the best Bath team I’ve played with,” said Grewcock – who won the last of his 74 England games against Ireland in 2007. “All around the squad there is talent – we’ve got a fantastic pack of forwards and while in the past we were very good in the set piece, the pack now have that little bit more about them.

“The squad is playing some great rugby and I kind of plod along watching the guys score some exceptional tries.

“I don’t think the Guinness Premiership title is overdue – if you’re not good enough to win, you’re not good enough to win and it’s as simple as that.

“But I really feel this squad is exceptional and we’re looking for a result on Sunday.”