Giancarlo Dondi, the president of the Italian Rugby Federation, believes Pierre Berbizier’s men may surprise a few people in this year’s RBS 6 Nations.

Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) president Giancarlo Dondi believes he will be in a position to name a new coach for the national team early next week.

Italy coach John Kirwan will know if he is to keep his job in two weeks after the sport’s governing body has mourned the death of Pope John Paul II.

Italian rugby supremo Giancarlo Dondi has called on his side to finish the RBS 6 Nations in style, even though the Azzurri now look almost certain to end up with the wooden spoon.

ITALY winger Nicola Mazzucato insists his side will “fight like warriors” against Ireland and look to build on their momentous victory over Scotland a fortnight ago.

Italy winger Nicola Mazzucato insists his side will “fight like warriors” against Ireland and look to build on their momentous victory over Scotland a fortnight ago.

Italy have vowed to give England a baptism of fire in their first competitive match as world champions when the RBS 6 Nations tournament kicks off this weekend.

DESPERATE to find game-breaker Mat Rogers a starting position, Wallabies coach Eddie Jones is considering him at full-back for Australia’s opening World Cup clash with Argentina.

A SHORTAGE of cash will continue to hamper Italy’s progress in international rugby according to the Federation President Giancarlo Dondi.