Rugby: Johnstone axed by Italy

Brad Johnstone has been axed as coach of the Italian national rugby side, after months of speculation.

The New Zealander endured fierce criticism from both players and officials during this year's Six Nations campaign, where Italy again ended the championship bottom of the heap.

Johnstone has paid the price for failing to build on an impressive start to his career, when he guided Italy to victory over Scotland in their first ever Six Nations game.