Italy and England’s Six Nations Journey – Special Circumstances

In 2022, Italy notched some remarkable victories. They commenced the year with a thrilling triumph in the Six Nations final round against Wales, ending a daunting streak of 36 consecutive Championship defeats. Additionally, they delivered an impressive performance during the Autumn Nations Series, with a resounding win over Samoa, scoring a remarkable 49 points – their highest in this World Cup cycle. Just a week later, they etched their name in history by defeating Australia for the first time in their Test history.

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Nonetheless, Italy’s 2022 campaign encountered its share of disappointments. Before their victory against Wales, they suffered defeats in each of their first four Six Nations matches by double-digit margins. They also faced a surprising loss to Georgia during the summer, marking Georgia’s first-ever victory over a Tier 1 nation.

In 2022, Italy exhibited a more expansive style of play compared to previous years. Formerly known for their forward-focused approach, particularly at scrum time, they have evolved into a team comfortable with spreading the ball wide. Opta’s playmaker data revealed that Italy moved the ball beyond the first receiver in 30% of their phases, a rate surpassed among Tier 1 teams in 2022 only by Japan and England. Moreover, only Japan exceeded Italy in moving the ball beyond the second receiver, with Italy achieving an impressive 14% in Six Nations.

A Glorious Year: Italy’s Rise and Six Nation Expectations

Italy’s strategy for exiting its defensive zone in 2022 was notably effective during the Six Nations. They boasted a solid 91% success rate in 22 exit strategies, with 61% of successful exits involving kicks. Their approach aligned with that of France, who maintained an undefeated record in the same year, emphasizing the safest route out of their 22 rather than attempting risky ball carries from deep. This tactical precision in playing from advantageous positions on the field proved beneficial to Italy’s overall results.

Amidst the anticipation surrounding Italian rugby, especially after their promising 2022, the Azzurri’s performance in the Six Nations stands out as a focal point. In the same year, Italy achieved a 45% win rate, securing five victories out of 11 Tests. This marked a significant upturn in their fortunes, with their highest win rate since 2007 (46%, 6/13) and their most successful non-Rugby World Cup year since 1998, where they won four out of six matches (67%).

The year 2022 witnessed some notable victories for Italy, further fueling the excitement. Their first win of the year came in a dramatic fashion against Wales during the final round of the Six Nations, ending a staggering streak of 36 consecutive defeats in the Championship. Subsequently, they delivered an emphatic performance during the Autumn Nations Series. They scored a remarkable 49 points against Samoa, marking their highest point tally in this World Cup cycle.

To top it off, Italy made history by defeating Australia for the first time in their Test history just a week later. These victories are a testament to their growth and a preview of the excitement that awaits in the Six Nations.

Italy’s Six Nations Redemption: Overcoming 2022 Challenges

However, Italy’s 2022 journey had its share of disappointments, which only adds to the intrigue of their Six Nations prospects. Before they triumphed over Wales, they faced defeat in each of their first four SN matches, with deficits in double digits. Additionally, they encountered a surprising loss to Georgia in the summer, a historic moment as it marked Georgia’s first-ever victory over a Tier 1 nation.

These experiences will undoubtedly shape their approach to the Six Nations 2024. In 2022, Italy showcased a transformed and more expansive playing style, a significant development. Traditionally known for their forward-centric approach, especially in scrums, they have evolved into a team that is comfortable with moving the ball wide.

Opta’s playmaker data reveals that Italy moved the ball beyond the first receiver in 30% of their phases, a rate only exceeded by Japan and England among Tier 1 teams in 2022. Furthermore, Italy moved the ball beyond the second receiver more than any other Tier 1 team except Japan, with an impressive 14%. As the Six Nations approaches, this shift in playing style adds an element of unpredictability and excitement.

As the anticipation for the Six Nations grows, Italy’s strategy for exiting its defensive zone in 2022 deserves attention. They recorded a remarkable 91% success rate in 22 exit strategies, with 61% of successful exits involving kicks. This strategy aligns with that of France, who maintained an undefeated record in the same year, emphasizing the safest route out of their 22 instead of risking ball carries from deep.

Monty Ioane’s Absence in Italy’s Six Nations Campaign

And for those eager to be part of the Six Nations excitement and witness Italy’s journey in the tournament, securing SN Tickets is the gateway to experiencing the thrills and drama of the competition. Italy’s transformation and the excitement of the Six Nations promise a compelling rugby spectacle in the upcoming season.

In the context of the upcoming SN, full-back Ange Capuozzo has swiftly risen to prominence, leaving an indelible mark since his debut for Italy during last year’s Guinness Six Nations. In a remarkable performance against Scotland, Capuozzo crossed the try line twice on his debut. His meteoric rise culminated in him being honored as World Rugby’s men’s Breakthrough Player of the Year. Capuozzo has showcased his ability to shine on the big stage, delivering crucial tries and assists in significant Test matches.

Intriguingly, Capuozzo’s impact has been most evident in his encounters with ‘Tier 1’ nations. He has been involved in six try-scoring situations during his 275 minutes of action. Against such formidable opponents. This remarkable statistic translates to him either scoring or assisting a try every 46 minutes in these matches, the most impressive rate among all players in 2022. As we look forward to the Six Nations, Capuozzo’s presence promises to be a game-changer for Italy.

However, the absence of Monty Ioane, Capuozzo’s regular back-three teammate, due to unavailability is a setback for the Azzurri. Ioane has been a force to be reckoned with, recording. The highest number of line breaks (seven) in the Championship last year. His contributions extend beyond attack, as he also stands as the leader in dominant tackles (seven). The void left by Ioane’s absence in both attacking and defensive aspects will be keenly felt by Italy during the Six Nations.

Henry Arundell’s Six Nations Return: The ‘Special Circumstances’ Saga

Arundell’s unique circumstances, including the dissolution of his former club, London Irish, have triggered the ‘special circumstances’ rule, allowing his participation in the Six Nations. Jack Willis, who joined Toulouse last November and helped them secure the Top 14 title, won’t have the same privilege due to the 12-month gap.

It’s important to highlight the RFU’s selection policy for players at overseas clubs. They can only be picked in ‘exceptional circumstances.’ The RFU CEO, Bill Sweeney, emphasized that players abroad due to their clubs’ collapse. Snd their inability to secure contracts in England would be available for the Six Nations 2024. Henry Arundell falls under this category, and efforts are underway to facilitate his return to England in 2024-25.

Conor O’Shea, England’s performance director, anticipates that the situation with Arundell will be confirmed in the coming weeks. He clarified that players like Joe Marchant and Dave Ribbans, who went abroad for different reasons, won’t be eligible for the Six Nations. The exemption for Henry Arundell.

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