Italy vs Scotland rugby LIVE: Kick-off time, TV channel, live stream free and team news for Six Nations game TODAY

SCOTLAND take on whipping boys Italy as they look to kick on in their Six Nations campaign THIS AFTERNOON.

But they were edged out by Wales the following week before being crushed at home to Six Nations leaders France in their third fixture.

Nothing less than a bonus point victory will be expected against the Italians however, as the Azzurri have not won in the Six Nations since 2015.

Despite a brave effort in Paris, Italy have been outclassed by France, England and Ireland in their opening three match.

There are some changes for both teams ahead of this one as Italy hope to live up to the barnstorming performances of their superb Under 20s team.

What time does Italy vs Scotland rugby kick off?

  • Italy vs Scotland takes place on Saturday, March 12 – TODAY.
  • The match kicks off at 2.15pm.
  • It takes place at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
  • When the sides met last year, Scotland secured a crushing 52-10 win.

What TV channel is Italy vs Scotland on and can I live stream it?

  • Italy vs Scotland is live on ITV.
  • Coverage commences at 1.30pm – 45 minutes before kick-off.
  • To stream the game live, head to the ITV Hub.
  • In Scotland, the match is live on STV.

Can I watch Italy vs Scotland for free?

  • Yes. ITV and STV are free for all viewers with a TV licence.

Stay up to date with all the latest from Rome in our live blog below…

  • Kieran Davies

    Huge feelings for both teams

    Marcello Cuttitta, twin brother of the Italy and Scotland legend said:

    Massimo loved Scotland. He loved the Scottish people. There’s always a story behind sporting trophies and to think that in 100 years time people will hear the story of Massimo when they see this trophy is incredible. The cup is fantastic. Thank you with all our hearts.

    Marcello CuttittaFormer Italy winger

  • Kieran Davies

    First ever Cuttitta Cup

    Today the teams will be playing for the Cuttitta Cup, a new trophy celebrating the contribution of Massimo Cuttitta to rugby.

    The former Italy captain and Scotland scrum coach died of Covid 11 months ago at the age of 54.

    An Edinburgh jewellers has crafted the trophy.

  • Kieran Davies

    The challenge ahead

    Leading up to the game against Scotland, the Italy coach lays out his thoughts on what is expected of his side:

    We are taking on a team who have shown their worth in previous outings of the tournament. We have the opportunity to play in front of our fans, we want to turn the page and react on the pitch with a big performance.

    Kieran CrowleyItaly

  • Kieran Davies

    Questions will be asked

    Italy are hoping to end their record run of 35 Six Nations defeats.

    The same discussions are being had as to whether Italy should be in the Guinness Six Nations due to the gulf between them and the other five teams participating.

    Results are required, talk of new starts every game is falling on deaf ears, Italy need to show they can earn their place at the table.

  • Kieran Davies

    Confidence in today's opponents

    Italy have only won 12 Six Nations matches since they joined the tournament in 2000.

    Seven of those victories have been against Scotland.

    They have beaten the Scots six times in Rome.

  • Kieran Davies

    Time for change

    Italy were thrashed 57-6 by Ireland in their last match but they were reduced to 12 players by the end of the game.

    The 16 points scored so far after three rounds is their worst ever return in the Six Nations.

    The Azzurri haven't scored a try in 227 minutes of Guinness Six Nations rugby.

  • Kieran Davies

    All roads lead to Rome

    The Stadio Olimpico hosts the Guinness Six Nations game between Italy and Scotland with both sides having points to prove after largely disappointing tournaments so far.

    Scotland got their championship off to the perfect start with victory over England at home but have suffered defeats to Wales and France since their opening game.

    Gregor Townsend will be looking to put in a performance to answer some of their critics today against the Italians.

  • Alex Terrell

    Scotland replacements for Italy

    Stuart McInally, Allan Dell, WP Nel, Jamie Hodgson, Magnus Bradbury, Ben Vellacott, Adam Hastings, Sione Tuipulotu.

  • Alex Terrell

    Italy replacements vs Scotland

    Luca Bigi, Ivan Nemer, Giosue Zilocchi, David Sisi, Manuel Zuliani, Alessandro Fusco, Marco Zanon, Ange Capuozzo.

  • Alex Terrell

    Italy team news

    For the Italians Stephen Varney is replaced by Bristol-born Callum Braley.

    Hooker Gianmarco Lucchesi is out and in comes Giacomo Nicotera.

  • Alex Terrell

    Scotland team news

    Scotland have made changes on the wing with Duhan van der Merwe out with an injury.

    Hamish Watson moves back to flanker with Matt Fagerson playing No8.

    In the front row George Turner comes in for Stuart McInally.

  • Alex Terrell

    Six Nations latest table

    France's 13-9 win against Wales last night means Les Blues are a dot on the horizon, disappearing fast towards the Six Nations trophy.

    If France beat England next weekend they win the Grand Slam.

    As for Scotland, they do not have a chance of winning the title now.

  • Alex Terrell

    When in Rome

    It's a delightful spring day in among the seven hills of the Italian capital.

    And, let's not forget, we were all watching the Six Nations on telly a year ago.

    This year the fans are back, bringing all their colour and pomp to the occasion.

    Tasteful dress code is not encouraged.

    Credit: Getty
  • Alex Terrell

    Good afternoon Six Nations fans

    Welcome to SunSport's coverage of Italy vs Scotland from Rome.

    Spring has finally sprung and the Scots are leaping into town for this Six Nations clash.

    There is never anywhere to hide in international rugby and Scotland certainly found that two weeks ago when they were kicking themselves during defeat to France.

    But they can press reset with a win against the Azzurri, but have some injury problems to contend with.

    Scotland cannot win the Six Nations title outright, but do have a long shot of finishing second if other results go their way.

    For the Italians, it seems that pride is once again on the line and they simply need to get a result.

    They have not won a Six Nations match since they beat Scotland in Murrayfield in 2015.

    Their best two finishes in this tournament were in 2007 and 2013 when they grabbed two wins.

    Gregor Townsend's side have a few injury issues, notably on the wing and in the front row, meaning the Scotland coach has had to shuffle his pack.

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