Staff Reporter.
Wales set up a Grand Slam encounter against France in Paris next Saturday by clinically disposing of hapless Italy with a seven-try rout in Rome.
Hooker Ken Owens crossed for two tries with further scores from Josh Adams, Taulupe Faletau, George North, Callum Sheedy and Louis Rees-Zammit.
Italy only managed a try through wing Monty Ioane in response.
Wayne Pivac’s side can complete the Six Nations clean sweep by winning at the Stade de France next weekend.
France and Scotland will still have a match to play after their third-round game was postponed because of coronavirus cases in the French camp.
But Wales have the chance to create their own ‘Super Saturday’ with victory at the Stade de France, where they could secure a second Grand Slam in three tournaments.
The omens are good. Wales have already won their fifth Six Nations Triple Crown since 2000 and on each of the previous occasions they have done so, they have gone on to seal the Grand Slam.
It represents a remarkable turnaround from a side that finished fifth in Pivac’s first tournament in charge and managed only three wins in 10 games in 2020, although we have grown used to the boom-and-bust nature of Welsh rugby.
It might also be a special day for captain Alun Wyn Jones, who could become the first Welshman to celebrate four Grand Slams.
Wales have now matched their record of 17 Six Nations tries in one tournament with a game remaining.
This was Wales’ 16th successive victory over Italy, with the last defeat coming in 2007, and also represents their longest winning run against one opponent, overtaking a run of 15 victories against France from 1908-1927.
Meanwhile England overhauled a stubborn, skilful France to snatch victory in a see-sawing Six Nations match at Twickenham.
Eddie Jones’ side trailed 17-13 at the break after dazzling scores from Antoine Dupont and Damian Penaud had put France in front.
The hosts’ pressure told in a cagey second half as Maro Itoje barged over for a 77th-minute score.
Even then France threatened to land a decisive counter-punch but Brice Dulin’s break was snuffed out.
Wales’ win over Italy earlier in the day means England’s victory is too late to salvage a Six Nations title defence.