Wales endured the embarrassment of claiming their first Six Nations wooden spoon since 2003 following a 24-21 defeat to Italy in Cardiff. Despite George North’s farewell appearance, marred by injury, Wales failed to salvage their dismal campaign, suffering a fifth consecutive Six Nations loss and finishing at the bottom of the table.
Italy’s victory, marked by tries from Monty Ioane and Lorenzo Pani, along with solid kicking from Paolo Garbisi, highlighted Wales’ struggles and further compounded their woes.
Despite Warren Gatland’s plea for patience amid post-World Cup rebuilding, Wales faced stark realities as they succumbed to late tries from Elliot Dee, Will Rowlands, and Mason Grady, offering little consolation amidst a string of disappointing performances.
With seven consecutive Six Nations home losses and just one win in ten tournament appearances under Gatland’s second stint, Wales grappled with a challenging period of inconsistency and underperformance.
Italy’s triumph, breaking their streak of eight campaigns at the bottom, underscored a memorable season, defeating Scotland and securing a draw with France.
Meanwhile, Wales’ daunting schedule ahead, including a match against world champions South Africa and a tour of Australia, poses further challenges for Gatland and his team, as they seek to regroup and rebuild following a disheartening conclusion to their Six Nations campaign.
