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Leonardo Ghiraldini chosen as Italy captain against France

Image: Leonardo Ghiraldini takes over from injured Sergio Parisse as Italy captain

Hooker Leonardo Ghiraldini will captain Italy in their World Cup clash with France on Saturday in the absence of back-row lynchpin Sergio Parisse.

Parisse needed to have fluid removed from his leg after Italy's warm-up game against Wales earlier this month and has been given more time to recover.

Samuela Vunisa shifts from open-side flanker to replace Parisse at No 8 and Azzurri coach Jacques Brunel is confident he has an able deputy.

"He was the strongest replacement and has played this role before. (Alessandro) Zanni has a bit, but not as much. The main responsibility for the No 8 comes in the scrum and France's scrum is one of the strongest around," Brunel said.

"We have to respond as a squad and the other players have to fulfil their roles, not just the experienced players, but everyone. Our half-backs are young and while they still have to develop, this is a chance to show their quality."

Exeter Chiefs signing Michele Campagnaro will make his World Cup debut in place of star centre Luca Morisi, who was ruled out of the tournament with torn knee ligaments.

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