Gregor Townsend’s side got their Six Nations tournament off to the perfect start.

Ulster recorded their third consecutive bonus-point Guinness PRO12 win as they overcame a battling Zebre side 40-17 at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi in Parma.

Leinster 70 Zebre 6: Leinster had the game done and dusted by the time the returning Johnny Sexton left the field last night, on 55 minutes.

Zebre 14 Glasgow 43. Guinness Pro 12.

Italy 20 Scotland 36: Jason O’Halloran hopes Scotland can shake off their mental shackles after finally halting their long RBS 6 Nations losing streak.

Jamie Roberts has no doubt that an extended preparation period will help Wales arrive at the World Cup later this year in prime physical and mental shape.

Italy 0 France 29

Munster 31 Zebre 5

Munster 36 Zebre 8

Connacht 20 Zebre 3

Paddy Jackson’s 14 points from the kicking tee proved decisive as Ulster ground out a hard-earned 19-11 RaboDirect Pro 12 victory at Zebre.