Italy have matched their previous all-time best of eighth in the World Rugby Men's Rankings following their 24-21 win over Wales in Cardiff.
Wales suffered the ignominy of a first Six Nations wooden spoon since 2003 after Italy posted a 24-21 victory over them in Cardiff.
Wales veteran George North revealed that he will retire from international rugby after Saturday's Six Nations clash against Italy.
Italy winger Louis Lynagh contributed to a remarkable comeback that saw the Azzurri beat Scotland for the first time in nine years, moving them above Australia.
Scotland's Six Nations campaign unravelled in disastrous fashion in Rome as they crashed to a first defeat against Italy since 2015.
Italy were within the width of a post of the biggest upset in Six Nations history as they drew 13-13 against 14-man France in Lille.