Rugby-Bergamasco says Italian rugby would benefit from players moving abroad

FILE PHOTO: Italy's Mirco Bergamasco (C) is tackled by Argentina's Felipe Contempomi (L) and Bernardo Stortoni during their test rugby match at the Bentegodi stadium in Verona, northern Italy, November 13, 2010. REUTERS/Stefano Rellandini/File Photo

ROME (Reuters) - Italian rugby great Mirco Bergamasco has highlighted a lack of players moving abroad and youth development issues as reasons for his country’s recent struggles on the international stage.

The Azzurri, who welcome France to Rome on Saturday for the opening game of the 2021 Six Nations, are widely considered favourites to collect a sixth consecutive wooden spoon after suffering a record 27 consecutive defeats in the competition.