Australia ease past Italy

Coach Michael Cheika said Australia were improving and would be ready to take on New Zealand in the Rugby Championship after fighting off Italy 40-27 on Saturday.

Late tries to Bernard Foley and Reece Hodge staved off the threat of a second shock defeat following last week’s loss to Scotland, after Italy had narrowed the scores to 28-27 with 10 minutes left. The nature of the win will do little to ease the pressure on the hosts. —