John Inverdale presents coverage of the opening game of the 2009 Six Nations, in which England host Italy at Twickenham. The Azzurri have never beaten England, but came closer than they had ever previously managed in Rome last year when Brian Ashton's side laboured to a 23-19 win. Ashton has since been replaced by Martin Johnson but any hopes that England might immediately rediscover the form that brought them the 2003 World Cup under Johnson's captaincy were dashed in the autumn internationals.

Those results included a 42-6 thrashing by South Africa, which was a record defeat for the hosts at Twickenham. England have totalled just 26 points in their last three home matches and will be looking for a convincing performance to get their quest for their first Six Nations title since 2003 up and running.

John is joined in the studio by Lawrence Dallaglio, Jonathan Davies and Jeremy Guscott, while match commentary is provided by Nick Mullins and Brian Moore. Show less