Sports
Italy vs Wales: Six Nations 2023 – LIVE!
Six Nations round four opens with an intriguing clash at the Stadio Olimpico this afternoon. A troubled Welsh side head to Rome desperate to avoid another galling defeat that, with a trip to Paris to come on the final weekend, would surely leave them holding the dreaded wooden spoon for the first time in 20 years.
It’s been an utterly miserable tournament for Wales so far despite the return of the messiah Warren Gatland as head coach, opening with three successive defeats to make their worst start since 2007 against a backdrop of an ongoing rugby crisis in the country. They have rung the changes once again today in a bid to avoid losing to plucky Italy for the second year in succession.
The Azzurri’s shock last-gasp win in Cardiff 12 months ago ended their 36-match Six Nations losing streak that dated back to 2015 and provided a platform for real growth. Now they have their sights set on a first home win for a decade in this competition despite the loss of Ange Capuozzo, having lost out with some spirited displays in recent weeks. Follow Italy vs Wales live below!
Live updates
Italy vs Wales: Countdown to kick-off
The warm-ups are underway as the Stadio Olimpico begins to fill up.
Lots of Wales red in the stands as away fans enjoy a trip to Rome.
Head-to-head record
Italy’s triumph in Cardiff last year was their first win over Wales since 2007. They also beat them in 2003.
The Azzurri have not won a home game in the Six Nations since toppling Ireland a full decade ago. Could that change this weekend?
Italy wins: 3
Wales wins: 27
Draws: 1
Italy fans in typically bombastic gear ahead of this game
Kieran Cowley optimistic for Italy’s chances
The Italy coach believes his side are ready to learn from their defeats against Ireland, England and France in their bid to chalk up a win today.
He said: “We recovered well from the last game and this week we worked on the areas where we needed to improve.
“We know the match ahead against Wales and are looking forward to it and hopefully we can continue to develop the way we want to play.”
Jamie Roberts backing Wales to come racing out the blocks today
Italy vs Wales: Countdown to kick-off
Just an hour until we get underway in Rome as round four of the 2023 Six Nations kicks off!
Visiting fans in good spirit in Rome
Strike talk did impact Wales team, admits coach
Warren Gatland has admitted that talks over striking for their recent defeat to England had an impact on their performance.
The WRU managed to strike a deal to prevent a walkout but the Wales coach has confirmed that a split formed in the camp.
“On reflection, the stuff off the field definitely had an impact,” said Gatland.
“There was quite a significant split in the group over which way to go and I think that definitely caused some tension for a couple of weeks.”
Welsh rugby hero passes away
Welsh rugby lost Andy Hill in the week, after his death at the age of 78.
The Scarlets legend was dubbed one of the best players never to win a cap for his national team.
Italy vs Wales: Match odds
Italy to win: 5/6
Wales to win: Evens
Draw: 18/1
Odds via Betfair (subject to change).
