Warren Gatland Calls Italy Clash Crucial After Record Loss

Wales' head coach Warren Gatland faces a critical moment after a record-breaking 43-0 defeat to France in their Six Nations opener, marking the first time in 25 years that Wales failed to score in a match. The loss extends Wales' winless streak under Gatland to 13 consecutive Tests, prompting urgent calls for a victory in their upcoming match against Italy, which is seen as pivotal for avoiding the tournament's wooden spoon. Gatland emphasized the importance of the next game, stating that his players are aware of the need to 'get the monkey off our back.' The team also suffered significant injuries during the match, with number eight Aaron Wainwright and centre Owen Watkin both potentially facing serious setbacks. Gatland noted the hard work of the players and the necessity of smart play to secure a win in Rome. Former fly-half Dan Biggar labeled the upcoming clash as Wales' biggest in 15-20 years, underscoring the high stakes involved.