Italy's World Cup experience leaves big question marks

Italy were never expected to make the knockout stages of the Rugby World Cup, but ending with a 60-7 loss to France on the back of a 96-17 hammering by New Zealand has raised doubts over the future of Italian rugby.

Italy kicked off the tournament as expected, two wins from their opening games to set them up for a shot at history.

In reality, Italy failed to impress in their 52-8 win over Namibia and only came alive in a second-half comeback to beat Uruguay 38-17.

What followed has shown how far Italy still are from the top sides, even after 24 seasons of Six Nations rugby.

"If 15 days ago there was enthusiasm for having qualified for World Cup 2027, the minimum objective, now we find ourselves with two heavy defeats and we can't hide from that," Marzio Innocenti, president of the Italian Rugby Federation, said.

"It's time to stop saying we are happy to play at the World Cup without then being protagonists."

A shell-shocked Italy were overwhelmed by New Zealand and although facing France was never going to be an easy task, in this year's Six Nations they only lost to them by five points.

At the World Cup, however, Italy were again too easily dismantled. France went over for their first try within two minutes and the writing was on the wall.

Coach Kieran Crowley knew coming into this tournament that it would be his last with Italy, a factor some believe may not have helped their cause.

"It didn't affect my performance, I don't think, although it made for an interesting dynamic," Crowley said after the France defeat.

He still believes this young side have plenty to offer.

"I've said before I would like to take this team forward. I think the next World Cup is their cycle," he said.

He had words of advice, however, for those in charge