Italy has overtaken Wales, which slips to tenth place, also overtaken by Australia. Reigning world champions South Africa remain at the top, followed by Ireland, who confirmed their Six Nations title.
Italy will therefore have to defend their position in the international summer window which will see them challenge Tonga, Samoa and Japan away in July. Georgia will arrive but Argentina and the All Blacks, respectively fourth and second at the last World Cup, two teams against which the Azzurri will have to demonstrate that they have become great.