Despite failing to win a game in the tournament, Italy turned in some highly creditable performances, including their first ever point away from home in the tournament when they drew 18-18 with Wales in Cardiff.

Aside from that draw, Pierre Berbiziers men also came away from their games with Scotland, France, Ireland and England with their pride very much intact - something that could not be said in previous years.

And Bollesan is delighted with the progress the Azzurri have made.

From my point of view, this has been the best Six Nations tournament for us, even though we finished at the bottom of the standings, he said.

We grew up a lot compared with previous tournaments and competed in all the games with more determination and less weakness than ever.

We played well at every stadium. We lost some games in tight situations, like in Ireland.

Against England we went close to victory, but in the end they were fitter and stronger than us, so they went away with a win. But Ive never seen an Italian team put so much pressure on England.

Im not sure France deserved to beat us, and it was our own fault we didnt beat Wales. We were superior to them - especially in the second half - but we lost our concentration at crucial moments.

Bollesan admitted he was frustrated by Italys failure to beat Scotland at home in their final game of the tournament.

Against Scotland, there was so much expectation for a win from our side, but maybe we forgot Scotland came from a convincing series of results, he added.

Losing it with just three minutes to go is burning me up inside but I know next year we will back stronger than ever.

Bollesan believes his players have earned the respect of other teams in the competition.

I'm sure our opponents know we have improved, so they will respect us more, he said.

I can't wait for the next Six Nations. For me, this tournament is second only to the World Cup for importance, and I really believe this young, determined, brilliant Azzurri team have a fantastic future.