That means Best and co. will come into the game on the back of a five-try mauling of Italy rather than a heartbreaking defeat to Wales, that would have been the case originally.

And the Ulsterman insists the confidence his side have taken from their Italian victory could very well prove the difference in Paris this time around.

Ireland have only won once in France since 1972 and Best said: “The record books say that us winning in Paris doesn't happen very often, so from an Irish point of view it would be a massive result for us.

“We go there full of confidence, but we're fully aware of how long it's been since we've beaten them in Paris.

“It's a massive challenge, but we have a massive opportunity to write ourselves into the history books. As competitive players you want to have these big moments in your career. Sunday evening can be one of those for us.

“Now we're coming off the back of a good win and have scored five tries against Italy. You don't often see Italy concede 40 points these days.

“It's very encouraging to go to France with that in the bank. We've also had another few weeks together so we're ironing out the wrinkles.

“But any time you to go Paris is an exciting time. We want the win that has been so elusive for Irish rugby for so long.”