Veteran flanker Mauro Bergamasco has been called up to Italy’s RBS 6 Nations squad ahead of their next clash with Wales at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
Bergamasco was left out of head coach Jacques Brunel’s first two squads of the tournament that saw the Azzurri shock France in the opening round before falling to Scotland at Murrayfield.
But with 93 caps to his name the 33-year-old, who made his debut all the way back in 1998, will bring some much needed experience to the back-row.
Bergamasco’s inclusion comes as a result of Italy captain Sergio Parisse’s red card on the weekend while playing for his Top 14 side Stade Francais in their 30-14 win over Bordeaux Begles.
The Italian No.8 may now find himself facing a suspension that could jeopardise his involvement in Saturday’s Wales clash leaving a hole for the Zebre flanker to potentially fill.
With brother Mirco ruled out through injury, Mauro’s call up continues the remarkable streak that has seen a Bergamasco included in every RBS 6 Nations since the tournament began.
And only seven caps short of his century, Bergamasco will be desperate to grab at least a spot on the bench when Rob Howley’s Wales side travel to the Italian capital.
