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The great Sean Fitzpatrick, someone who broke all sorts of records with New Zealand © Getty Images

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Who holds the world record for consecutive Test caps - and what's the Italian record? G-PP, Italy

This particular record is held by New Zealand's Sean Fitzpatrick who appeared in 63 successive Tests between 1986 (when he made his debut) and 1996. Australia's Joe Roff lies second on the list with 62 successive caps between 1996 and 2001.

The Italian record is held by flanker Alessandro Zanni whose absence from the side against Ireland this season ended a run of 58 successive Test appearances for the azzurri - one of the most remarkable endurance feats of modern Test history.

Among others who have made 50 or more consecutive Test appearances for their country are Gareth Edwards (53 - his entire Test career in fact - for Wales 1967-1978), Willie-John McBride (52 for Ireland 1964-1975) and Christian Cullen (51 for NZ 1996-2000).

John Griffiths is a widely respected rugby historian and is the author of several sports books, a regular contributor to the Daily Telegraph and co-author of the IRB International Rugby Yearbook. He has provided insight for Scrum.com since 1999.

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