LONDON – Italian centre Luca Morisi has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup with inspirational captain Sergio Parisse also in doubt for the tournament after their final warm-up match against Wales on Saturday.
In what has proven to be a costly match for both teams with Welsh scrum half Rhys Webb and Leigh Halfpenny ruled out of the Rugby World Cup, Morisi suffered a torn ligament in his knee after falling awkwardly. Morisi’s centre partner Gonzalo Garcia also suffered an ankle injury in the match however is expected to continue his rehabilitation with the rest of the team.
Captain Sergio Parisse will also face a race against time to be fit for Italy’s first game at the Rugby World Cup after it emerged that the 31 year old needs fluid drained from his left leg.
Despite both teams playing out a close 23-19 match, the game has proved to be of very little value with Wales and Italy suffering injuries to key players.
Wales start the World Cup campaign against Uruguay on September 20 while Italy kick off their assault against France at Twickenham on September 19.