Six Nations Confirm Major Italy vs England Change After Middle East Conflict Escalation

Australia’s Nic Berry had been scheduled to serve as assistant referee but has been grounded and will no longer take part. In his place comes Scotland’s Sam Grove-White.

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It marks Grove-White’s second involvement in this year’s Championship. He previously ran the line during France’s record 54–12 victory over Wales in Cardiff.

France’s Pierre Brousset steps up to the AR1 role following Berry’s withdrawal, with Grove-White appointed as AR2.

Fellow Frenchman Luc Ramos remains as referee and will make his Six Nations debut in Rome. England have won both previous matches officiated by Ramos — a 52–17 victory over Japan in June 2024 and a 22–17 win against Argentina last July.

Steve Borthwick’s side have already experienced disruption with match officials during this campaign. In round three against Ireland, referee Andrea Piardi was forced off after just 30 minutes with a leg muscle injury.

According to rugby historian James Stafford, Piardi’s withdrawal was the sixth time a referee has been replaced due to injury during an England fixture — and the first instance since 2011.

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

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