The wooden spoon decider has extra resonance for home side after George North announced his international retirement
WALES are arguably in pole position to win the wooden spoon in their final match of the 2024 Six Nations at the Principality Stadium tomorrow (2.15pm).
They need a bonus point win over the confident Azzurri, who beat Scotland 31-29 last weekend, but this new look Wales team are yet to win a match in the tournament.
The players know it is a must win game.
“I don’t think anything else is acceptable tomorrow. We need to come away with a win and finish on a positive end to the campaign,” said Aaron Wainwright.
The match also marks the end of George North’s international career. He made his international debut against South Africa in 2010 at just 18 years old. Since then, he’s been capped 120 times and is now Wales’ second-highest try scorer of all time.
“Obviously it’s sad to see him step away from international rugby, he’s had a hell of a career. Hopefully we can get a win for him tomorrow,” said Wainwright.
Despite their losing run Wales came close against Scotland and England in the opening two rounds, showing the promise in this young side.
“When we’re accurate we can take teams to the edge,” said Wainwright.
Italy broke their seven-year Six Nations losing streak against Wales in 2022, but it has been over a decade since Italy won two matches in a Six Nations campaign. However, they will fancy their chances of a win against Wales to follow up their victory over Scotland.
“They’ve been playing very well, they’re going to be high in confidence,” said Wainwright.
Elsewhere in the Six Nations, Scotland are looking to end Ireland’s hopes of back-to-back tournaments and a win for England over France could still see them win the tournament.
