What had felt like a must-win for England turned into a shock as Italy produced a historic victory in Rome. After heavy defeats to Scotland and Ireland, Steve Borthwick made sweeping changes to his side following the 42-21 loss in Dublin, yet England still fell 23-18 — their first defeat to Italy in 33 meetings and a third loss in this year’s Six Nations. The result leaves England facing the prospect of their worst finish in the championship, with a final round trip to Paris to face title-chasing France and Borthwick’s future under intense scrutiny.
Former England international Ugo Monye said the timing for a conversation about Borthwick’s position is immediate, arguing that recent selections and results suggest the current group are not reaching their potential under the coach’s strategy. The head coach has seen a year-long, 12-Test run of momentum evaporate in a matter of weeks, and if England cannot stop France in the finale his tenure could be in jeopardy.
Italy, by contrast, look to be on the rise. The Azzurri now have a genuine chance of finishing outside the bottom two for the first time since 2013 and only the third time since joining the Six Nations in 2000; a win over Wales or an England loss to France would secure that improved placing. Louis Lynagh said the opening win over Scotland, played in wet conditions in Rome, gave the squad belief and the conviction to produce performances like the one that toppled England.
Although England were reduced to 13 men at one point after two sin-binnings, Italy combined attacking creativity with gritty defence. Centre Tommaso Menoncello played a central role, involved in two eye-catching tries, and Lynagh described the team as having a bit of stardust. Head coach Gonzalo Quesada, who has worked in French rugby, has introduced elements of that experience into Italy’s approach. They are not yet at France’s level, but their upward trajectory is evident.
Earlier on the same day Scotland produced one of the tournament’s most spectacular displays, outscoring France 50-40 at Murrayfield in a match featuring twelve tries and 90 points. Scotland’s seven-try barrage ended France’s Grand Slam hopes and narrowed the title race: France remain top but are now separated from Scotland only on points difference.
France still control their destiny at the Stade de France — a win over England in the final round would hand them the championship. Scotland travel to Dublin to meet an in-form Ireland side; a Scottish victory there would keep them firmly in contention. Ireland sit two points behind the leaders and can still influence the outcome.
England are out of title contention but have more than pride at stake. If Wales, currently bottom, take a bonus-point win over Italy and England suffer a heavy defeat to France, England could even finish last and collect the wooden spoon for the first time. With one round remaining and so much unresolved, the Six Nations is headed for a dramatic final weekend.