Sergio Parisse surgery blow for Italy's World Cup hopes
Tuesday 8 September 2015 16:43, UK
Italy captain Sergio Parisse is a doubt for their opening World Cup match after having surgery on a leg injury suffered against Wales on Saturday.
The Italian Rugby Federation said Parisse underwent the surgery on Monday in Paris. His recovery details are expected to be announced over the next few days.
The No 8 had fluid drained from his bruised left leg leaving him in a race against time to be fully match-fit for the World Cup.
Argentina-born Parisse was injured in the 23-19 loss to Wales in Cardiff on Saturday in the Azzurri's final pre-tournament match.
Talisman
The Stade Francais back-rower is a talismanic player for Italy, spearheading many of their attacks and renowned for his fine ball-handling skills.
Italy are already without fly-half Kelly Haimona, who has not fully recovered from a broken right forearm.
Haimona's Six Nations back-up, the 48-cap Luciano Orquera, retired from internationals in June. Tommaso Allan has filled in at fly-half.
Italy open their World Cup campaign at Twickenham against France in Pool D on Saturday, September 19, and face an uphill task to qualify for the quarter-finals round, with Ireland also in their group.
