Italy’s disrupted build-up to their RBS 6 Nations opener against Ireland tomorrow has improved dramatically with John Kirwan’s preferred side given the all-clear to start the match.

Italy coach John Kirwan has revealed that injuries and illnesses have hampered his squad’s preparations for their RBS 6 Nations opener against Ireland.

Andrew Baldock

A doubt over the fitness of Paul Griffen means former captain Alessandro Troncon has been preferred at scrum-half for Italy’s opening RBS 6 Nations clash with Ireland in Rome on Sunday.

Fabio Ongaro has been named as Italy captain for the Test match against the USA on November 27.