England vs Italy halted as drone disrupts Six Nations clash at Twickenham | Rugby | Sport

The Six Nations game between England and Italy was interrupted by a drone hanging a Palestine flag above the Allianz Stadium. The incident occurred with the hosts leading 42-24 in the second half, and play was temporarily held up after the match officials were informed.

It appeared to be a political protest over the ongoing Israeli–Palestinian conflict. ITV didn’t broadcast the drone, but pictures of the flag soon went viral on social media. The Palestine flag was clearly visible draped underneath from two strings. 

The action was only briefly delayed before the drone flew off and play resumed. Members of the crowd appeared to glance up in confusion over what was transpiring.

Following the delay, England crossed again in injury time through Ben Earl to seal a 47-24 victory. The result means Steve Borthwick’s side will head into the final weekend with their title hopes still alive, trailing leaders France by a single point.

It wasn’t the only time the game was held up during the afternoon. In the first half, play was halted for several minutes after England centre Ollie Lawrence went down injured before being taken off in a medical cart.

Afterwards, England skipper Maro Itoje didn’t appear to keen to dwell on the injury blow or the drone incident. Instead, the second row focused on his side’s attacking display that yielded seven tries.

“We wanted to move the ball, find space and be a bit more aggressive ball in hand, and I think we were today,” he said. “We wanted to get five points and win the game.

“Ok, we targeted being a bit more dominant than we were. But by in large, we’re happy. Next week it’s Wales playing England, in Cardiff, but we just have to fo what we have to do.”