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Italy must keep Wales behind the Gain Line Posted almost 13 years ago

We have to be honest with ourselves and admit that Wales is the best team in the Six Nations. They are the team of the moment. Wales deserved more from the World Cup and not too many sides win at Twickenham. It is Italy’s toughest game, but no one goes onto the field thinking they will lose.

Italy has to play the perfect game. Against Ireland we were good for 50 minutes, but then we made mistakes. Italy cannot do that against Wales. England showed that if you can tackle them early then even the Welsh find it difficult to play. We have to get them on the back foot. When Wales have the ball Italy has to pressure them at the scrum, at the lineout, at the ruck, in every phase of play.

It is a big job although we did it against France last year. But that match was at home. We know Wales can keep the ball for 30 phases, so we have to keep our discipline. We have some new young players and a more attacking attitude this season. Nothing is expected of Italy on Saturday except by ourselves.

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Born in Argentina of Italian lineage, Martin Castrogiovanni has won 105 caps for the Azzurri since debuting against the All Blacks in 2002. A tight head prop known for his immense power and great scrummaging technique, Castro has represented Italy in 3 Rugby World Cups. He made an immediate impact on joining the Leicester Tigers in 2006 winning the Guinness Premiership player of the year in his debut season. He has acquired a cult following at Welford Road and in addition to being one of the best props in world rugby; Castro is one of the games great characters.

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