Six Nations: Italy 23 England 18England suffered a historic first defeat to Italy with a 23-18 collapse at the Stadio Olimpico raising the grim prospect of falling to their worst Guinness Six Nations finish. The Azzurri found the killer touch when it mattered most, condemning England to a third consecutive mauling that intensifies the scrutiny on Steve Borthwick’s regime. Error-prone England continued to shoot themselves in the foot but with uncertainty also creeping into Italy’s game, they remained in the fight with Ben Earl and Roebuck influential. The conversion and two penalties nudged England 18-10 ahead and with Giacomo Nicotera sent to the sin-bin, the outlook was looking up for the visitors. With Itoje still off the field, Italy crafted a wonderful try down the left with Leonardo Marin crossing after Menoncello had marauded through the England defence and it was all over for Borthwick’s team.

Source: Irish Examiner March 07, 2026 18:55 UTC