Rain hammered the Stadio Olimpico as Italy edged Scotland 18‑15 in the Six Nations opener. Scotland stumbled early, trailing 12‑0, and never recovered despite a late surge that saw them complete 29 phases before Max Williamson was held up. Townsend left the pitch visibly frustrated but unbowed.

Pressure mounts after autumn defeats to Argentina and New Zealand, and the Roman loss fuels speculation about Townsend’s future. He dismissed rumours of a move to the Newcastle Red Bulls, confirming his contract runs to the 2027 World Cup. Next Saturday, Scotland travel to Murrayfield to face England in the Calcutta Cup.

Fact: Gregor Townsend signed a contract extension in 2023 to remain Scotland’s head coach through the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Italy’s superior set‑piece, especially a five‑throw loss for hooker Ewan Ashman, exposed Scotland’s weaknesses. Wingers Jamie Dobie and Kyle Steyn struggled to contain Louis Lynagh, while replacement full‑back Tom Jordan could not prevent the second try. Townsend praised the late effort but warned the team must tighten basics before the England clash.