Italy slid into recession for the third time since 2008 in the second quarter, underlining the chronic weakness of the eurozone’s third largest economy and pressuring prime minister Matteo Renzi to complete promised reforms.

Italy’s chance of stable government after elections this weekend may rely on forcing two awkward partners into coalition: former European Commissioner Mario Monti and an openly gay leftist he has vowed not to work with.

CORK-BORN Jackie Cott has been living the dream of many golfers this week by caddying for Greg Norman at the Heineken Melbourne Open.