Today's match features officials including English referee Matthew Carley, New Zealand assistant referee Paul Williams, Scottish assistant referee Sam Grove-White, and French TMO Eric Gauzins. Warren Gatland downplays the match's critical importance, but anticipation runs high. How are the nerves, Wales fans? Confidence seems poised in the Italian ranks. Any thoughts from other nations can be sent to lee.calvert.casualtheguardian.com or reached via Bluesky. Gonzalo Quesada has made one change to Italy's lineup, with Niccolo Cannone replacing Dino Lamb. Late injury updates for Wales show Liam Williams and Daf Jenkins have been withdrawn just before kick-off, leading to Blair Murray shifting to fullback and Freddie Williams moving to lock, therefore bringing Josh Hathaway and Teddy Williams onto the bench. Owen Watkin's injury necessitates a change at center, with Eddie James stepping in. On a brighter note, Gatland welcomes back veteran Taulupe Faletau in the Number 8 shirt. As both teams take to the field at the iconic Stadio Olimpico, the stakes are clear: victory is crucial for both factions to shape their destinies in this season's Six Nations. Italy aims to revive its hopes following a loss to Scotland, while Wales seeks to end a painful 13-game defeat streak, a situation that could see them plummet to their lowest world ranking. Will today finally yield a win for either side, or will the match leave one team grappling with their struggles yet again?
