6 Iain Balshaw
Strong in defence and eager to add his weight in attack, even if judgment of the pass remained awry

7 Paul Sackey
More alert than against Wales. Watchful in defence and good late tackle on Mauro Bergamasco

6 Jamie Noon
Marshalled midfield defence well, few opportunities, but important contribution to England’s second try

6 Toby Flood
Has shown his detractors that he can defend and stood in at first receiver to good effect

5 Lesley Vainikolo
One rumble in the first half that nearly made a try for Haskell but has yet to make the impact England seek

7 Jonny Wilkinson
Still breaking records, created first try, three poor kicks (by his standards), still the man in possession

5 Andy Gomarsall
Strong around the fringes, showing the dependability that carried him through the World Cup

6 Tim Payne
Solid display at the scrums and with contributions in the loose. Should be happy with his game

6 Mark Regan
Part of an outstanding lineout display and a front row that held up well against the heavyweight Italians

5 Matt Stevens
Only knew he was playing yesterday morning and did well at the set-pieces. Needs to carry more effectively

7 Simon Shaw
Quality display by the lock, both at the lineout and as auxiliary back row, confirmed his standing for England

8 Steve Borthwick
Commanding display at lineout, carried off the captaincy to good effect; all the makings of a coming of age

6 James Haskell
Good with ball in hand, learning his way around international rucks and mauls, but still overeagerness of youth

6 Michael Lipman
Good first Six Nations showing, good timing and lines of running; must make more impact in the tackle

6 Nick Easter
First game since late December but played well and will be more effective once he gets back into his rhythm

Replacements

6 Lee Mears
Energetic as usual and maintained England’s lineout expertise

6 Richard Wigglesworth
Good debut display, given pressure England were under

5 Luke Narraway
Deserved another outing but spent much of it in retreat

4 Danny Cipriani
Will know better and more effective days

Also used
Ben Kay, Mathew Tait.