Yoann Maestri returns in France XV to face Italy

“Scrappy it may have been for most parts, but France won’t care too much”.

Italy will be without their talismanic captain Sergio Parisse for their opening World Cup match against France at Twickenham on Saturday.

In the first ever meeting between the two European sides in eight World Cups, the Azzurri will be seeking what would be only their fourth win against the French in 36 meetings. There was a brief period in the second half when they were on top, but apart from that, it was not an evening to remember.

The result gave France a solid platform to make it out of a pool that also includes Romania, Canada and Ireland, who opened their campaign on Saturday with a crushing 50-7 victory over the Canadians. “On this evidence, it looks a tall order”.

“That they run out onto the pitch with a smile on their faces”.

Whether his squad buys into his entreaties remains to be seen.

During his reign, Saint-Andre has been criticised for not sticking with a regular half-back partnership. And that’s not enough when there are 31 players.

Parisse needed to have fluid removed from his leg after Italy’s warm-up game against Wales earlier this month and has been given more time to recover.

“Therefore he is not in the 23 man matchday squad”.

France will hope to reignite their renowned flair, which has deserted them somewhat in recent seasons, with flyhalf Frederic Michalak back for his third World Cup after missing 2011.

“I came to Italy in 2011 with the goal of turning the team into one that could rival the best in the world”, said the 61-year-old. It has on some occasions, but not often enough to my liking. “It is still possible”.