With Italy’s traditional home the Stadio Flaminio currently being renovated, the Azzurri have moved to the Olimpico where they are optimistic of their highest-ever RBS 6 Nations attendance with an estimated 70,000 spectators expected.

And Pavanello, whose five previous appearances for Italy all came off the bench in summer or autumn tours, revealed that there is an added spice to the game because of the huge crowd.

“The Flaminio was beautiful and warm, but of course, to play in front of 70,000 rather than 30,000, you can feel the difference,” said Pavanello, whose suspension was for a stamp in a Heineken Cup clash with Saracens a fortnight ago.

“It was the first ban of my career, of course it had to happen before the opening game of the Six Nations. I hope it will be a great occasion for everyone. I will try to enjoy it as much as possible.

“It’s clear that we are in a period of examination at the moment, for the coach as well, so it’s possible we’ll see some changes during the tournament.

“Last year I got injured just before the tournament. First of all I need to try to avoid misfortune, and if I get on I’ll be desperate to show what I’m worth, I’m really keen to do that.

“The other times that I was called up it was because someone else was injured, and that always leaves you with a few regrets. This time I was called up from the start and that’s very gratifying. With my club I have been playing at a high level so I feel like I’ve earned my spot.

“Last year I felt I deserved a chance. But I was told that I wasn’t tall enough and others were preferred. I thought I deserved a spot, it’s a shame, the call-up never came.”