ITALY flanker Mauro Bergamasco has declared the operation on his fractured cheekbone a success as the Azzurri continue their build-up to the RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland.

Italy flanker Mauro Bergamasco has declared the operation on his fractured cheekbone a success as the Azzurri continue their build-up to the RBS 6 Nations clash against Scotland.

FRANCE’S second-half revival to beat England on Sunday has not stopped coach Bernard Laporte making several changes.

Italy coach John Kirwan has shaken up his squad in preparation for the clash against Scotland at Murrayfield on February 26 following two consecutive home defeats in the RBS 6 Nations.

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

Leinster weathered a determined Treviso challenge as tries from Ireland internationals Shane Byrne, Shane Horgan and Brian O’Driscoll helped them to a 25-9 Heineken Cup Pool 2 win.

Italy number eight Sergio Parisse is set to miss the RBS 6 Nations match against Ireland on March 20.

Italian centre Manuel Dallan is not fully fit and will only be on the bench for tomorrow’s RBS 6 Nations Championship match against France in Paris.

The Welsh suffered an embarrassing whitewash last year but, after their heroics in Australia, have been tipped by England’s World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson to spring a surprise.

Italy coach John Kirwan has delayed his team selection for Sunday’s RBS 6 Nations opener against England and will not now announce his line-up until tomorrow.