Troncon, the most capped player in the Azzurris history with 90 appearances, was understandably thrilled to be given a call up to the 30-man squad to face Tonga, Argentina and Fiji later this month.

Well what more can I say, the Treviso club player said. Im still here in this team and happy to be a part of it.

At my age (32), just to be called for these three tests, especially coming before a big tournament like the RBS 6 Nations, has made me believe that Im still able to play at a high level, despite there being lots of promising yougsters.

We are going into these matches with high hopes, and I believe each one of us will do everything we can to impress the coach, and of course we want to win three out of three.

With the Six Nations on the horizon, there is a lot at stake and Im ready to play at my best.

I feel at my best so every opportunity this month could be a bonus for this great team to go forward.