The number 8 suffered a head injury playing for his club Stade Francais and his loss will come as a huge blow to Italy boss Conor O'Shea.

To say the weight has been lifted from CJ Stander’s shoulders by the end of Munster’s losing streak would be underplaying the relief the province’s captain is feeling as he heads to Paris.

Ireland have a special plan to combat “magician” Sergio Parisse in Sunday’s vital World Cup clash against Italy, according to Conor Murray.

Ireland fear Sergio Parisse could “change the dynamic” of their pivotal World Cup battle with Italy.