My dad is a Rugby World Cup winner – now I’m carving my own path in Six Nations

LOUIS LYNAGH won’t be in father Michael’s shadow for long, judging by his Six Nations debut.

Lynagh Junior played for England up to Under 19 level and his father is an Australian legend.

Louis Lynagh played for the England juniors but made his senior Italy debut at home against Scotland on SaturdayCredit: EPA

But the 23-year-old scored a try for Italy in Saturday’s memorable clash with Scotland.

The wing was even called up once by former Red Rose boss Eddie Jones for training in England.

But he has never been part of Steve Borthwick’s plans since Jones was replaced as head coach in December 2022.

Lynagh was born in Treviso, Italy, but grew up in England.

And he has been playing for Premier League club Harlequins since 2019.

His call-up to the Azzurri comes after he announced he will join Italian giants Benetton next season.

But although he started his international caretaker with a fine score, it will be virtually impossible to match Lynagh Senior’s performance.

The 60-year-old was vice-captain when the Wallabies won the World Cup in 1991.

And when he retired four years later after the defeat to England in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, he had won 72 caps.

He was also the then world record points scorer with 911 points.

I was the poster boy for the Rugby World Cup, but I’m skipping Six Nations to play another match ahead of the Olympics

Meanwhile, son Louis was introduced to Six Nations rugby in more ways than one in dramatic fashion.

He scored Italy’s second try during a tense second half.

He raced for a grab, fended off a few potential tackles and went over.

And when Italy smelled a famous victory, he was replaced by Federico Mori in the 71st minute after a thrilling baptism.