Italian player ratings after their narrow 24-21 victory against Wales in Cardiff are as follows:

Lorenzo Pani (15): Initially nervous but grew into the game magnificently, showing promise for the future. 8/10

Louis Lynagh (14): Impressive display in only his second Test cap, solid defensively with seven tackles. 6/10

Juan Ignacio Brex (13): Man-of-the-match performance, outstanding defensively and strong with ball in hand. 9/10

Tommaso Menoncello (12): Strong partnership with Brex in midfield, powerful and improving with each game.

8/10

Monty Ioane (11): Slippery and dangerous on the wing, constant threat with a strong kick-chase. 8/10

Paolo Garbisi (10): Commanding at fly-half, instrumental in setting up Ioane’s try. 9/10

Stephen Varney (9): Executed gameplan well, controlled pace of attack, composed partner for Garbisi. 7/10

Lorenzo Cannone (8): Warrior-like defense, efficient in all aspects of play. 7/10

Michele Lamaro (7): Inspirational captain, outstanding performance with 21 tackles and key interventions at breakdown. 9/10

Sebastian Negri (6): Physical leader, relentless on both sides of the ball with 18 tackles and 10 carries. 7/10

Federico Ruzza (5): Clean in lineout, busy in defense, solid contribution. 6/10

Niccolo Cannone (4): Impressive with 18 tackles, strong effort in tight five. 7/10

Simone Ferrari (3): Influential in scrum, clean play and decent tackling. 7/10

Giacomo Nicotera (2): Reliable in lineout and breakdown, solid performance.

7/10

Danilo Fischetti (1): Dominant up front, 11 tackles and neat breakdown work. 7/10

Replacements: Ross Vintcent and Martin Page-Relo made valuable contributions, struggled initially but made a difference. 6/10