Six Nations: What do competitors think of the tournament in Wales under fire

The trip to Dublin follows on Friday night to face Ireland on March 6.

Ireland coach Andy Farrell named just two Welsh players in his squad when in charge of the British and Irish Lions in the series win in Australia in the summer.

Ospreys’ Jac Morgan appeared as a substitute in two Tests, while Gloucester scrum-half Williams was injured before the start of the series.

Tandi’s side ended their campaign against Italy in Cardiff eight days later, with the Azzurri aiming for a third successive win over Wales.

Italy have also won their last two matches at the Principality Stadium and celebrated a complete victory over Australia in November 2025.

Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada said: “It is true that as a team we may have achieved some good results in the past two years.”

“I know the crisis in Wales and the situation with the clubs, but I also know how much pride they will put in this Six Nations and want to do well for the national team.

He added: “They know that if Wales perform and achieve good results, it will be a huge help for them in the transition they are going through now.”

Quesada also points out the difference in facilities between Italy and the other five countries involved.

“We know they have amazing facilities in Wales and all the conditions to prepare,” the former Argentina international said.

“We are the only union that does not have its own rugby training centre.

“They’re not excuses, they’re just facts and we don’t mention them internally. We want to compete against Wales, we want to compete against all the other teams.”