The big, strapping speedster had to play like a big, strapping speedster and did so, working hard for the ball, very much deserving his try. Being dropped stung the Leinster wing and he got stuck in, chasing and gathering and making himself a nuisance, especially with a late, late intercept. 41 – Jeremy LoughmanUnder the cosh against an in-form Italy scrum who went after their opposite numbers to make for a feisty encounter. Zambonin was allowed to dominate Italy lineout. However, the Irish pack never managed to locate the front foot and ceded a try from an Italian lineout drive.

Source: Irish Examiner February 14, 2026 19:29 UTC