English referee Chris White has apologised to Wales over the "misunderstanding" that caused a controversial ending to Italy's 23-20 Six Nations win at the Stadio Flaminio.

Wales were awarded a penalty near the end of the game and, having checked with White that there was time for them to kick for touch and go for a match-winning try, they turned down the chance to go for the three points that might have earned them a draw.

When Wales did kick for touch White immediately blew for full-time leaving the Wales players angry and frustrated.

White responded today by issuing a statement in which he apologised for the confusion.

The statement read: "I would like to apologise for the misunderstanding that occurred as the Italy v Wales Six Nations game drew to a close on Saturday.

"I have apologised to the Wales coaching and playing staff for the misunderstanding. I would like to thank them for the good grace with which my apology was accepted."

Italy scrum-half Alessandro Troncon had no sympathy for the Wales players, blaming them for taking too long deciding what to do.

He said: "Wales had 10 seconds left to play but the referee was correct because the Welsh players were talking about what to do and they took their time. Fortunately for us the official correctly decided to blow the final whistle."