England v Italy Women – Grand Slam Hopes Alive After Big Win

England took a commanding step toward another Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam on Saturday, defeating Italy 61-33 in Parma. The win, secured at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, extends England’s record-breaking run to 37 consecutive Test victories and sets up a final-round decider against France.

The Red Roses exploded out of the gate, scoring four tries in the first 14 minutes to establish a 26-0 lead. Italy, however, showed resilience throughout the contest, crossing for five tries of their own in a match that provided plenty of attacking rugby for the crowd of 10,000 at the iconic Parma venue.

What Was the Score in Italy vs England Women’s Six Nations?

Key Match Insights

• England scored nine tries in total, with Marlie Packer contributing four.
• The Red Roses secured a bonus-point victory within the first 14 minutes.
• Italy responded with five tries, including a penalty try and a double from Francesca Sgorbini.
• Holly Harrison converted several key scores, amassing a personal haul of 16 points.
• England’s 37-match winning streak remains intact, the longest in women’s Test rugby.
• Coach John Mitchell’s side now faces France in a Grand Slam decider.

Match Fact Table

How Did Marlie Packer Lead England to Victory?

The England captain delivered a standout individual display, scoring four tries in what ESPN described as a “superb individual display.” Packer crossed twice in the first half and added two more after the interval, proving instrumental in pulling England clear after Italy had briefly threatened a comeback.

Who Else Scored for England?

Hooker Amy Cokayne opened the scoring with a double inside the first nine minutes. Helena Rowland then exploited a gap in the Italian defense, followed by Mia Venner who made it 26-0 in the 14th minute. Abi Burton added a try early in the second half, while the attacking depth ensured England kept the scoreboard ticking over.

Who Scored for Italy?

Italy’s five tries came from Vittoria Vecchini (17th minute), a penalty try awarded while England were temporarily down to 14 players, Alissa Ranuccini, and a double from Francesca Sgorbini (56th minute and late in the match). The hosts trailed 40-19 at halftime but continued to attack throughout the second period.

What Does This Result Mean for the Women’s Six Nations 2026 Table?

England sit top of the table with a perfect record of four wins from four matches, amassing 20 points. The victory keeps them firmly on course for a Grand Slam, with their final match against France now a winner-takes-all showdown. Italy, despite a competitive showing, are likely positioned in mid-table after the loss, depending on other results from the round.

How Close is England to a Grand Slam?

England have won all four matches so far, outscoring opponents by a wide margin. Their 37-match winning streak is the longest in women’s Test rugby. The final match against France is expected to be their toughest test of the campaign, with France also undefeated heading into the decider.

Where Does Italy Stand in the Table?

Italy’s five tries against the world champions showed attacking promise, but defensive lapses, particularly in the opening quarter, proved costly. The Azzurre have avoided the wooden spoon and face Ireland in their final round, with a chance to finish mid-table. Exact standings beyond the top two were not consistently reported in available sources.

Match Timeline: Key Moments from Italy 33-61 England

1. 9′ – Amy Cokayne scores England’s first try (converted).
2. 14′ – Mia Venner scores to make it 26-0 to England.
3. 17′ – Vittoria Vecchini responds for Italy.
4. 22′ – Penalty try awarded to Italy (England down to 14).
5. 30′ – Marlie Packer scores her first try.
6. 40+1′ – Marlie Packer scores her second try (halftime: Italy 14-40 England).
7. 55′ – Marlie Packer scores her third try.
8. 56′ – Francesca Sgorbini scores for Italy.
9. 70′ – Marlie Packer scores her fourth try.
10. Full time – Italy 33-61 England.

Times and scorers compiled from The Telegraph live updates and ESPN match coverage.

What Is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear?

The official match report from World Rugby is the definitive source for complete statistics and confirmed try scorers.

What Does This Win Mean for England’s Season?

This victory extends England’s unprecedented run of 37 consecutive Test wins, a streak that began in 2021. Coach John Mitchell’s side has now won four straight Six Nations matches, outscoring opponents by over 100 points. The Grand Slam decider against France will be the ultimate test of their dominance in women’s rugby.

Italy, meanwhile, can take encouragement from their five-try performance against the world champions. The Azzurre pushed England hard in the final quarter and showed attacking structure that should serve them well in future tournaments. Their final match against Ireland will determine their finishing position in the 2026 standings.

What Are the Key Quotes from the Match?

“Marlie Packer scores four tries as England beat Italy 61-33 in Parma.”

BBC Sport

“England are on track for another Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam.”

ESPN

“England moved one step closer to another grand slam with victory over a spirited Italy.”

The Guardian

What’s Next for Both Teams?

England face France in the final round of the Women’s Six Nations, with the Grand Slam and championship on the line. Italy play Ireland, aiming to finish the tournament on a high note and avoid last place. The final round is expected to take place on 16-17 May 2026.

For a full overview of the tournament, see our Women’s Six Nations 2026 Fixtures and Results page.

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