Keatley nod a shock for Parisse

Sergio Parisse has admitted Ireland caught Italy on the hop by handing Ian Keatley his RBS 6 Nations debut this weekend.

Italy captain Parisse conceded the Azzurri fully expected Joe Schmidt to start Ian Madigan at fly-half for Saturday’s Stadio Olimpico clash in Johnny Sexton’s absence through concussion.

Parisse claimed Italy will not single out Munster’s Keatley to try to prey on his inexperience, but admitted the three-cap fly-half will be under intense pressure.