Ireland head coach Joe Schmidt believes that a victory over England in their crunch Six Nations clash would be the biggest they have had since the start of his reign.

Both sides meet in Dublin on Sunday in what could be a Grand Slam decider, but rather than play down the significance of the match, Schmidt has suggested that a win would represent a major milestone in his team's development ahead of the World Cup.

"It would be the biggest win we've had so far, without a doubt," Schmidt told reporters.

"The position we're in, what we've got to play for, the year that's in it, the players that have come in and out of the squad... there's a number of things that it would be great to give that confidence to the players, to know that they're capable of doing it.

"I think it's hard not to get excited. We've been working hard for a long time; 50 different players in 18 months and this gives us an opportunity to maybe culminate in a home victory that would be really special."

Ireland started the defence of their Six Nations crown with victories against Italy and France, while England came from behind to beat Wales on the opening night before seeing off the Italians at Twickenham.