The president of the Italian Rugby Association (FIR) Giancarlo Dondi has admitted that 2005 has not been the best year for his country on the pitch.
The Azzuri finished bottom in the RBS 6 Nations after failing to win a game, which led to coach John Kirwan being replaced by France legend Pierre Berbizier.
Well 2005 hasn't been our best year, we didn't win any games in the RBS 6 Nations to start, which led to us changing our head coach, said Dondi.
Under Berbizier we are taking a step forward and last summers tour of Argentina and Australia has been very positive.
Now Dondi is turning his attention towards 2006.
Now with the RBS 6 Nations on the horizon again we most really believe in ourselves and give it our best shot.
If the other teams are better than us then never mind, at least we know we gave it our best shot, added Dondi.