England coach Sir Clive Woodward paid tribute to Jason Robinson after he marked his switch to centre with a hat-trick of tries against Italy.
The decision to move Robinson from his usual position at wing or full-back was questioned in some quarters beforehand.
But Woodward said: "The game is moving on and as long as he is on the pitch you can play him anywhere.
"It is fantastic for him to score three tries. He has upped a gear since the World Cup final."
Woodward added: "I am also pleased for Henry Paul that he came on as a substitute, he deserves his second cap.
"The pair are a big testament to the league game and we are very lucky to have them."
The modest Robinson was keen to deflect credit for England's victory onto others.
"It is brilliant to score the tries but the guys inside work hard to give me the ball," he said.
"The game got a bit scrappy at the end but it is a very good start for us.
"Italy were very physical, were up for it and never stopped. It was a good win for us."
England never looked in trouble after full-back Iain Balshaw grabbed the first of their seven tries after 15 minutes.
And Woodward admitted the 50-9 victory was a solid start in the defence of their Six Nations Grand Slam.
"I am very satisfied," he added. "To come here and put 50 points on a very committed side is very pleasing.
"Collectively we were a bit rusty and there is a lot still to do, but I am pleased with the first win."
England's next match is against Scotland, who lost 23-10 in their opener against Wales, at Murrayfield next Saturday