Fly-half Andrea Scanavacca was the most notable absentee from a 40-man squad named by Italy coach Pierre Berbizier today for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup.

THOMAS CASTAIGNEDE admits it has been hard watching France endure a stuttering start to their RBS 6 Nations campaign as he prepares to make his tournament bow against Italy tomorrow.

Italy have made three changes to the team narrowly defeated by Scotland for Sunday's Six Nations clash with Wales in Rome.