CONNACHT are expecting perfect weather conditions to play some expansive rugby against newcomers I Cavalieri Estra in their opening European match in Italy this afternoon (2pm Irish time).

Italy coach John Kirwan has made just the one change for the Azzurri’s crunch Pool D game against Canada next week.

Italy coach John Kirwan has pulled back from his threat to field an entire second 15 in Saturday’s Pool D clash with New Zealand in Melbourne.