England face another tricky test as they look to salvage their Six Nations campaign today, facing Italy at Rome’s Stadio Olimpico.
Since opening the tournament with a rip-roaring home triumph over Wales, England’s fortunes have seen a sharp decline.
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Comprehensive defeats by Scotland and Ireland have left them fourth in the Six Nations standings, and they could slip further still if they fail to come away from the Italian capital with a win.
Italy are no slouches this year. They stunned Scotland on home soil in their tournament opener, and then ran Ireland close. One cannot read too deeply into their 33-8 defeat by Grand Slam hopefuls France, though.
Steve Borthwick has rotated heavily for this match as he looks to finish England’s tournament on a respectable note.
His 12 adjustments - nine personnel, three positional - is the most ever made between Tests by an England coach.
There are some bold omissions from the team, with Fraser Dingwall, Henry Arundell, Freddie Steward and George Ford all left out of the matchday squad.
Among their replacements are Fin Smith, Jamie George, Alex Coles and Six Nations debutant Seb Atkinson.
Italy, meanwhile, have welcomed Juan Ignacio Brex back into the XV after he missed the trip to France fr personal reasons.
How to watch Italy vs England
TV channel: In the UK, Italy vs England is being shown live and free to air on ITV1, with coverage beginning at 3:35pm GMT.
Live stream: Fans can also watch the game live online via the ITVX website and app.
Live blog: You can follow all the action on matchday via Standard Sport’s live blog.
