Moments of brilliance by a backline shorn of its best player have spared Scotland from a second straight humbling by Italy in Six Nations rugby.

Scotland have hope of mounting a Six Nations title challenge as they embark on a fresh campaign against Italy.While optimism has been punctured somewhat by a string of untimely injuries, Gregor Townsend’s settled squad are confident that they can build on their development over the last few years and back up big performances to challenge for a long-awaited title.

Scotland will be out for revenge on Saturday as they take on Italy at Murrayfield in their opening fixture of the 2025 Six Nations. Last year's encounter between these two sides saw the Italians secure their first Six Nations home win in 11 years,