The fact that so many of their squad are becoming house-hold names in both the English and French leagues is testament to the quality they possess.

Their game has always been built around a strong set of forwards, and it's no different now, but the added dynamism from the likes of Sergio Parisse at number eight and the Bergamasco brothers, both in the back row and in midfield, has started to add control and consistency to the team.

With Marco Bortolami as captain, the Italians have one of the best leaders in the game, and with emerging talent coming through every year, 2008 is the season for them to add continuity to their two wins in 2007.