Finn Russell v Paolo Garbisi – a look at Scotland and Italy’s stand-off battle

Italy and Scotland meet at Stadio Olimpico on Saturday in a Guinness Six Nations clash between two sides who have struggled at times in the opening matches of the tournament.

Here, the PA news agency looks at the battle between the two stand-offs, Paolo Garbisi and Finn Russell.

Paolo Garbisi – Montpellier and Italy

Position: Stand-off
Age: 21
Caps: 16
Debut: v Ireland, October 2020
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 13st 12lbs
Points: 90 (1 try)

Described earlier this week by Scotland hooker Stuart McInally as being as good as any fly-half in the tournament, Garbisi represents Italy’s main threat. Still in the early phase of his international career, the 21-year-old Venetian has thrived since making his debut for his country almost 18 months ago. Garbisi’s impressive form for Benetton helped earn him a big move to Montpellier last year and he is currently keeping World Cup winner Handre Pollard out of the No.10 jersey at his club side. If Scotland can keep him subdued, they will have a good chance of claiming victory.

Finn Russell – Racing 92 and Scotland

Position: Stand-off
Age: 29
Caps: 61
Debut: v USA, June 2014
Height: 6’0″
Weight: 13st 10lbs
Points: 226 (7 tries)

As Scotland’s talisman, big things were expected of Finn Russell in this tournament. He was supposed to play a key role in propelling Gregor Townsend’s side into title contention. It hasn’t transpired that way, however. Russell kicked the decisive penalty in the opening-weekend victory over England, but he has done little to influence proceedings in demoralising back-to-back defeats by Wales and France. Indeed there were even calls in some quarters for him to be dropped for the trip to Rome. Townsend will be desperately hoping the Racing 92 man can rediscover his touch this Saturday ahead of a more formidable test in Dublin next weekend.