Six Nations 2013: Andrea Masi wants Italy to carry form onto global stage

Italy’s performance in the Six Nations has given the side a platform to build on ahead of the 2015 World Cup, according to Andrea Masi.

The Azzurri had arguably their most successful campaign since joining the tournament in 2000, earning hard-fought victories over France and Ireland, and pushing England all the way to the wire at Twickenham.

And the 31-year-old Wasps full-back hopes Italy can take their form on to the global stage and improve on their showing at the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand, where they exited in the group stages.

“We finished the tournament well with the win over Ireland and overall I think we played our best rugby ever at times in the Six Nations and that’s important as we are now really building something for the next World Cup,” said Masi.

“The game against England was disappointing that we didn’t win it and we needed a bit more belief but we were very competitive against one of the best sides in the world which we need to take positives from.”

Masi’s own contribution to the Italian cause was huge, and saw the stalwart rewarded with a Player of the Tournament nomination. But the modest utility back, who has more than 70 caps for his country, insisted the winner should come from champions Wales.

“Being nominated for that award is nice but I don’t feel I deserve to be in that category,” added Masi. “There are so many players in Wales who deserve that much more than me.”