NICK CAIN

The most discordant note struck in the international game this week was Kieran Crowley’s axing by Italy. Crowley’s contribution to Italy’s progress outstrips that made by almost every other head coach since the Azzurri became part of the Six Nations in 2000.
The former All Black pulled them out of the 36-match Six Nations losing trough they were stuck in under his predecessor, Conor O’Shea, by promoting attacking young players – most notably full-back Ange Capuozzo, No.8 Lorenzo Cannone, and flanker/captain Michele Lamaro.
It saw the genesis of a new Italian team and the growing s...