Romania coach Lynn Howells: 'Six Nations should be expanded'

Romania coach Lynn Howells has said that the Six Nations should be expanded to include promotion and relegation.

In their opening Rugby World Cup match, Romania lost 38-11 to France but Howells believes an expanded Six Nations would benefit rugby in Europe.

"To play in the Six Nations would be something teams like Romania dream about," Howells told reporters.

"The sad part would be losing teams from the top level of the tournament. And then the way back for them would be difficult.

"We have to be able to perform and show people we can perform at this level. It gives us that opportunity, whereas before we haven't had that chance."

Italy joined the Six Nations in 2000, and have finished bottom in 10 of the last 16 campaigns.