Italy Announces Squad for Six Nations with Key Player Changes

Italy's rugby squad for the upcoming Six Nations has been revealed by head coach Gonzalo Quesada, with notable inclusions and exclusions. Stephen Varney, who had been omitted from the November internationals, has been recalled after his transition from Gloucester to Vannes in France. Tommaso Allan, recognized for his extensive experience with 81 caps, has also returned to the team after stepping back last year to focus on his family, making a brief comeback as a substitute before sustaining an injury.

The squad will begin their campaign against Scotland at Murrayfield on February 1, but they will have to move forward without Louis Lynagh, who will be sidelined for several months due to a knee ligament surgery. In his absence, Zebre winger Simone Gesi has been given the opportunity to play and potentially earn his second cap. Furthermore, prop Giosue Zilocchi is making a comeback after recovering from injury, while Luca Rizzoli has been called up to replace Mirco Spagnolo, who is serving a five-week suspension due to a red card issued during a match.

Quesada acknowledged the challenges ahead and expressed confidence in his squad despite several key players being injured. He emphasized the importance of building on the positive aspects shown in November while striving to implement their strategies more effectively on the field.