Record of no importance: Hickie

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Denis Hickie insists Ireland's perfect post-World Cup record over England will be meaningless when the rivals collide in a crucial RBS 6 Nations clash.

Defeat at Croke Park on Saturday would leave Ireland's title hopes in ruins and leave Eddie O'Sullivan's side with just one victory from their opening three matches.

The stakes are equally high for England who, should they dispatch the pre-tournament favourites, will set-up a possible title decider against France at Twickenham on March 11.

Ireland were the first team to dethrone England after their 2003 World Cup success and have beaten them every time since, but in-form Leinster winger Hickie refuses to read too much into the statistic.

'There's a huge amount to be played for. It's vital that we win this match,' he said.

'If we do, not only will we be putting ourselves in a position to win the championship but we'll also be taking points from England.

'We're aware of what's on the line at Croke Park. We have a good record against England but that won't affect them and we won't be using as a crutch going into the game.'

Ireland's Croke debut ended in a heart-breaking 20-17 defeat to France but it remained a special occasion despite the outcome.

The arrival of England will be an even more emotionally-charged day given the history of the GAA-owned venue. It was the scene of 'Bloody Sunday', when 14 civilians were killed by British soldiers in 1920, and debate has raged over how England's national anthem 'God Save the Queen' will be received.

Hickie said: 'The atmosphere against France was fantastic and as long as we give the crowd something to shout about, that atmosphere will be great for England. Somehow I don't think the atmosphere for the England game will be a problem.'

He continued: 'We've forgotten about the France game and are starting afresh against England. It's a very big game and everyone's looking forward to it.

'Everyone is aware of the occasion and a lot has been made about the significance of the games but from our point of view it's something you look back on afterwards.

'We don't have the luxury of thinking about it going into the game. England have won both of their games while we've already lost a home game, so there's a lot for us to concentrate on.'

Hickie is delighted by the return of inspirational skipper Brian O'Driscoll, who missed out against France with a hamstring strain.

He said: 'Brian has been fine and has been fine all week. He was close to making the France game, so he was never going to be a doubt for England. With him back the combinations have a more settled look to them. Brian's return is a big bonus.'