In Rome, flanker Sebastien Chabal scored two tries at the Stadio Flaminio as France began its attempt to win back-to-back titles before hosting the World Cup in September and October.

France also had tries from Christophe Dominici, Cedric Heymans and Yannick Jauzion, while flyhalf David Skrela's form was impressive in place of the injured Frederic Michalak.

Coming off a two-test defeat to New Zealand and a one-point win over Argentina last year, France's credibility was on the line. But a length-of-the-field try to Dominici took France to a 22-3 halftime lead before it eventually won the inaugural Garibaldi Trophy.

"It's our best debut in the tournament in my eight years," France coach Bernard Laporte said. "I've seen a lot of initiative from players and they are the reason for the great result.

"Chabal, (Pierre) Mignoni, Skrela, everyone played well. It's very difficult to choose one player. Bravo to my team, to all my players. Our message is clear, and we sent it out today."

Chabal, after an 18-month absence, had an impressive game. The long-haired backrower was a marauding presence around the field, tackling fiercely and leading France in attack.

"It's a really good start to the tournament for us," he said. "We knew the Italy forwards were quite strong so we had to work hard and we did that. That made it easier for our backs to go forward."

Italy was undone by indiscipline at the breakdown and poor ball handling.

"We have to learn from our mistakes," Italy coach Pierre Berbizier said. "Against a team like France, opportunities are limited. We had them and we didn't take them."  IHT

In Italian: Italia travolta dalla Francia