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Tributes for Troncon

Troncon: 'I had a lot of hair and way less scars! I've changed a lot'

The Parc des Princes will play host to a piece of rugby history on Wednesday: the scene of Alessandro Troncon's 100th Test cap.

Troncon will become the seventh player in Test history to reach the milestone, and the player himself admits it has been a long, but fun, journey.

"The first thing that comes to my mind is that it's been long. Even though rugby has changed a lot, I've always had fun," he told the IRB.

Troncon, who was in a vibrant mood ahead of the big occasion, afforded a smile when he said it was not just rugby that has changed since he made his debut back in 1994 against Spain.

"I had a lot of hair and way less scars! I've changed a lot," he said.

"I've changed as a human being, as a man. I've learnt to listen to people. I've matured as a player."

His team-mates, some who have been there for the bulk of his caps, were full of praise for the little general.

"It's a great joy for those of us who know him well. At his age (34), he trains as if he was 20. He is a great example for all of us.," said Sergio Parisse.

"He's got an incredible inner strength. Our best present for him would be to play a great match against Portugal."

There was a rumour that Troncon would be made captain for the great occasion, however it didn't hold any truth. Current captain Marco Bortolami did however admit he would have had no qualms in giving Troncon the armband for the night.

"I would have given him the captaincy, no questions," he said.

"It is a great honour for me to play alongside Alessandro, someone who has always shown a great deal of leadership and character within our group."

And the ever friendly and relaxed Martin Castrogiovanni also had a few words for his team-mate and good friend.

"I always say he is a 'lovely crazy-man'. Because he is crazy, but he is also a great guy. A great friend. A leader on and off the pitch," the giant prop said.

As one career draws to an end countless others will begin, many inspired by the World Cup, and Troncon was quick to encourage those about to embark on their rugby journeys.

"To those kids that are beginning to get into rugby, after watching this World Cup, I would say that to practice this sport is the best way to make friends," he said.

"What I really love about rugby, what will remain forever with me, is that thing of creating strong bonds on the pitch that will eventually go on off it. For the rest of my life."