Player Focus: Sergio Parisse

Treviso and Italy number eight Sergio Parisse is itching for a return to Six Nations action on Sunday – eleven months after injurying his thigh in the Azzurri’s only 2004 tournament win.

March’s 20-14 win over Scotland came at a cost for John Kirwan’s side as they lost both Parisse and centre Manuel Dallan (knee) to the sidelines, and the former has not pulled on a blue shirt in anger since.

A man-of-the-match display from 21-year-old Parisse in last weekend’s 31-14 warm-up win over an Italian Super 10 All-Star selection has now set him up for a long-awaited return.

Likely to be flanked by Stade Francais’ Mauro Bergamasco and Wellington-born Agen star Aaron Persico in a youthful back row, averaging 24 years to Ireland’s 28 – Parisse already knows what to expect from Eddie O’Sullivan’s men.

“I have faced some of the Ireland team already this year, when playing for Treviso against Leinster in the Heineken Cup,” explained Parisse, who was plucked for his debut at 18 by Kirwan.

“They have an excellent lineout, are great athletes and their backs are very talented too – their three-quarters are some of the best in the world. So it is all for us to do on Sunday.

“I know that the Stadio Flaminio will offer the Irish a traditionally ‘hot’ reception from the Roman public, and hopefully spur us on to a great result,” added the 6ft 6in powerhouse.

Parisse has only played once before against Ireland – August 2003’s record 61-6 defeat in Limerick.

“I’m very eager to get back playing. I missed the autumn internationals also, and the past few months have been difficult for me – just working on my fitness alone.

“I feel I’m getting close to top form again now, and if I can get a run in the side hopefully I can help us get the two wins we are targeting.”

Three ties at the 24,000-capacity Stadio Flaminio may just help them achieve that sought-after double.

“Playing at home is positive for us,” said former All-Black Kirwan, who is now contracted to Italy until the end of the 2007 World Cup. “It’s certainly not going to be easy with Ireland having won the Triple Crown and France the Six Nations last year.

“We want to win every game because I believe we have to think positively,” he added. “Our aim is to be in every game in order to have a chance to win. We will think about every encounter as a possible victory.

“I expect the likes of Andrea Masi, Gonzalo Canale and Sergio Parisse to stand out in the tournament. It’s important for our results that these players make a difference.”

STATS:

Sergio Parisse (Benetton Treviso, Italy)

Date of birth: 13th September 1983
Height: 6ft 6in
Weight: 16st 4lbs
International Caps: 15
Points: 5 (1 try)
Debut: v New Zealand, 2002