There is an air of optimism surrounding Italian rugby after a largely positive 2022. The Azzurri recorded a 45% win rate last year, picking up five victories from their 11 Tests. It was their highest win rate in a calendar year since 2007 and their highest in a non-Rugby World Cup year since 1998 when they won four of their six matches. In terms of victories, it was their most in a non-RWC year in the professional era, winning more in 1993 (P10 W8).