This is where Wales are weakest but if Italy want to exploit this they will have to improve on the performance against Ireland, where they were not as good as they can be in the scrum.

But in general, I dont think we played too badly against Ireland in Dublin [Italy lost 19-3]. The windy conditions made good rugby very difficult but Italy did well in defence, as they have throughout this RBS 6 Nations tournament.

We also did some good things in other areas of the pitch, although it was a shame Denis Dallan failed to take such a great try-scoring opportunity with the score at 9-0. It is also a pity that we didnt make the best use of the conditions when the wind was behind us.

I think Aaron Persico had another good game, while Andrea Masi did well when he came on. I am a fan of Masi. He is quick and is one of the few players with the ability to make an impact on the game when coming on as substitute.

Wales played very well against England, and they will start the game clear favourites. They are strong in attack and we will have to be very watchful of their qualities in this area of the pitch.

But Wales are a strange team. On the one hand they were excellent against England, but in their recent defeat by Ireland they were never in the game.

I dont think the fact that Wales beat us in the World Cup will have any influence on the outcome of this match, and hopefully they will not be at their best next Saturday.