Sergio Parisse

Italian legend confirms retirement

It will bring an end to a 21-year professional career.

Parisse, 39, previously announced he would retire from international rugby after the 2019 World Cup but changed his mind as his final game was cancelled.

In 2021 he also said he would retire but once again had a change of heart.

"I will finish next June," the Toulon number eight told Rugbyrama.

"I know that after 20 years in professional rugby, there will be difficult moments. I know that I will miss rugby and I am trying to prepare myself for this period of my life in the best possible conditions."

VIDEO: Rugby World Cup 2015 - Sunday highlights

The Irish won the game 16-9.

Over in Pool C, Flyhalf Nicolas Sanchez guided Argentina to a 45-16 five-try victory over Tonga, setting them firmly on course for a place in the quarter-finals.

The bonus-point win in Leicester lifts Argentina to second place in the pool.

Italy regain one captain but are likely to lose another

Parisse was a very welcome arrival at Italy’s hotel on Tuesday, when after a wait of over two weeks the team's Illustrious long-time captain finally joined up with Jacques Brunel’s squad. 

While Italy played France and Canada, the 32-year-old number eight was back home in Paris recuperating and then training under the auspices of his club side, Stade Francais, following surgery earlier in September. On Monday he was finally given the all-clear to join up with the Azzurri, and less than 24 hours later he jumped on Eurostar to whizz to London.