ENGLAND are missing a trick in not following France’s lead and looking long-term towards the 2011 World Cup, according to Les Bleus defence coach David Ellis.

Italy coach Nick Mallett has been forced to make several changes to his team to face Wales in Saturday’s RBS 6 Nations Championship encounter in Cardiff.

Italy will not be intimidated by England when the two sides meet in Sunday’s RBS 6 Nations game in Rome, according to team captain Sergio Parisse.

EOIN REDDAN made GAA headquarters his stage on Saturday and was one of the few positives from another nightmarish day for Irish rugby.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse insisted his side should have no regrets after their narrow defeat to Ireland yesterday.

Ireland 16 Italy 11

ITALY captain Sergio Parisse insists he is more than ready to assume his new responsibilities as he prepares for this afternoon’s RBS 6 Nations Championship opener at Dublin’s Croke Park.

Italy captain Sergio Parisse insists he is more than ready to to assume his new responsibilities as he prepares for tomorrow’s RBS 6 Nations Championship opener at Dublin’s Croke Park.

Italy coach Nick Mallett has put his faith in experience for Saturday's RBS 6 Nations opener with Ireland at Croke Park.

ITALY’S Salvatore Costanzo could miss the entire RBS 6 Nations tournament with a back injury.

Fabio Ongaro has been named as Italy captain for the Test match against the USA on November 27.