The clash with the Scots has added significance for Best as it will be the first time he has led Ireland in a match against major opposition.

"It will be a very special day because I grew up watching Keith play," the 29-year-old said.

"Keith is a former Ireland captain who stands out for me. He did it for a long time, played in the same position and had a real impact on the game.

"He was a very special player so to reach the milestone he set means you must be doing something right.

"It will be a great day, but more important than the record is our performance and result on Saturday."

Best has eased concerns over his fitness after nursing sore ribs following Sunday's 17-17 draw with France.

"I'm 100% fit and feel really good. I went for a scan for my own piece of mind," the Ulster hooker said.

"It was sore on Sunday, but a day later it had settled down well. Training went well yesterday."

Ireland's title hopes evaporated with their frustrating stalemate in Paris and now the best they can hope for is third place.

Their final-day showdown with England at Twickenham could settle who finishes just below Wales and France, but first Scotland must be negotiated.

Once more the Scots are battling to avoid the wooden spoon with coach Andy Robinson under pressure with two matches to play of a hitherto winless Six Nations.

Best, however, feels that defeats to England, Wales and France have failed paint an accurate picture of their performance over the last five weeks.

"Scotland have been going very well. They're been unlucky with some of their results but their displays have been very good," he said.

"They're very dangerous and we'll have to be on the money.

"They've played some good rugby in this Six Nations and that will be a massive challenge for our defence."

Keith Earls (groin), Donncha O'Callaghan (ankle), Sean O'Brien (foot) and Jonathan Sexton (foot) failed to train yesterday and their fitness will continue to be assessed.