The two-time world champions will be shown plenty of respect at the Flaminio of Rome, but Berbizier does not want his side to be in awe.

'It will be a difficult game,' explained the Frenchman. 'We should come out onto the field with the conviction and the ability to challenge the Australians.

'We should learn to respect squads like Australia, but not fear them excessively. We are seeking the right balance ahead of the next World Cup in France.'

Captain Marco Bortolami knows the size of the task facing his team, but reckons a 'good result' is not beyond his men.

'Australia have a strong squad, surely among the three strongest in the world today,' he said.

'On Saturday against Wales, they dominated for the first 30 minutes before a great comeback from the Welsh team.

'We have to be ready for a great game. We must remain realists, but if we play a perfect game, I'm sure we can obtain a good result.'