By Tom Sunderland
Edinburgh is preparing to host Scotland and Italy's battle to avoid bottom spot this Saturday, with both teams entering the fray after failing to claim a point in the first two rounds.
These two sides compete almost annually to dictate who wins the wooden spoon, but Scottish coach Vern Cotter can be hopeful of establishing a new dominance over the Azzurri.
The Murrayfield hopes should be looking to make a statement against their Italian foes, but the two points on offer will be considered priority above all else on Saturday.
Read on for viewing information and match preview ahead of the Week 3 clash:
Date: Saturday, February 28
Time: 2:30 p.m. GMT/9:30 a.m. ET
Live Stream: BBC Sport website (UK), SuperSport stream (SA)
TV Info: BBC Sport One (UK), SuperSport 1 (SA)
Without a point to their names, it stands to reason that whoever loses in the Scottish capital this weekend will go on to finish last in the Six Nations standings.
Cotter was hit with the news on Wednesday that their appeal against Finn Russell's suspension had been unsuccessful and the ban upheld, per Scottish Rugby:
It's a damaging blow for Scotland to contend and one which demands Cotter assess his depth at fly-half before deciding upon the playmaker's replacement.
The pack battle was always going to be tense, but Jacques Brunel learned of a significant absence himself after it was revealed by Irish Independent Sport that prop Martin Castrogiovanni would be absent:
With Marco Bortolami also out, No. 8 centurion Sergio Parisse has even more pressure on his shoulders to lead from the front, as he always does.
Italy's 30-point defeat to England showed that their defence can most definitely be breached, but Scotland are seeking an improvement in chance conversion after a wasteful outing against Wales.
Key Battle
Stuart Hogg vs. Luke McLean
Having been the man to open the scoring at Murray field a fortnight ago, Stuart Hogg displayed that he is still the man who holds the keys to optimising this Scottish back line.
Possessing a terrifically round set of skills, the Scottish full-back can unlock Italy's defence and provide Scotland the foundations to make their assault, with Rugby World's Owain Jones among his admirers:
Luke McLean may be considered one of the more experienced veterans of the Azzurri squad, but he'll have a significant challenge in repelling Hogg should the Glasgow Warrior be allowed find his rhythm.
Hogg won't be the man filling in for Russell at No. 10, but his boot is still likely to play a significant role in catching McLean out of position.
Any high ball contested between the two will also be an intriguing site of their head-to-head, with Hogg bringing with him one of the most reliable grips under a high ball in this championship.
