Andy Farrell wary of ‘serious threat’ posed to Ireland by resurgent Italy

Ireland head coach Andy Farrell admits resurgent Italy pose a “serious threat” to his side’s aspirations of Six Nations glory.

The world’s top-ranked nation head to Rome in title-winning form on the back of resounding bonus-point wins over Wales and France but wary of coming unstuck.

While Italy have been perennial wooden spoon winners, they recorded statement wins over the Welsh and Australia in 2022 before giving reigning Grand Slam champions France a major scare in a 29-24 defeat at the start of this year’s championship.

"The respect we have for Italy is exactly where it should be."