OMNISPORT 

Italy have been handed a much-needed boost ahead of their Rugby World Cup clash with Ireland after news Sergio Parisse will return to training on Tuesday.

Parisse – Italy's captain – has missed their opening two matches of Pool D due to a calf injury, and the Azzurri have struggled for fluency in his absence.

After an opening-game defeat to France, Italy stumbled past Canada on Saturday to get their tournament up and running.

The return of Parisse, who suffered the injury in Italy's final World Cup warm-up match against Wales, will be welcomed by coach Jacques Brunel, who came under fire after the lacklustre win at Elland Road.

Parisse underwent surgery to drain a haematoma in his right calf prior to the tournament and has been training with his club Stade Francais since, but now he is ready to return to the international fold.