Rugby World Cup
Italy sweat on Sergio Parisse's fitness ahead of Rugby World Cup opener
ESPN Staff
September 9, 2015
Sergio Parisse is under an injury cloud for the Azzurri World Cup opener against France © Getty Images
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Italian captain and number eight Sergio Parisse is an injury concern for the Azzurri ahead of their Rugby World Cup opener against France on September 19.

The Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) confirmed Parisse has undergone surgical drainage on a haematoma in his left calf, an injury he suffered in Italy's 23-19 defeat to Wales on Saturday night.

Stade Francaise player Parisse is widely regarded as the lynchpin and standout player in the Italian lineup and any significant time off the field would be seen to hinder the chances of Jacques Brunel's men progressing from a strong Pool D that includes France and Ireland.

The FIR have indicated that they will broadcast updates on the prognosis and timings of recovery over the coming days.

In other news, Luca Morisi (Benetton Treviso) and Gonzalo Garcia (Zebre), both forced off the field in Cardiff with sprains, are undergoing further investigation, with updates on their respective conditions expected on Wednesday.

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