ITALY’S MARTIN CASTROGIOVANNI has predicted his side’s clash with Ireland will be a “war,” and hopes to make it “a long, long day” for Declan Kidney’s men.
Ireland face Italy on Sunday in a must-win encounter for both sides, with Wales the likely opposition for Declan Kidney’s men should they progress.
Castrogiovanni also played down Italy coach Nick Mallett’s remarks that Italy have “a better front-row than Ireland”. He joked: “Sometimes he [Mallett] talks too much,” before adding:
“The Irish scrum proved against Australia how good they are and they will be ready for that battle.”
“We know we are the underdogs. They beat Australia deservedly, so they are the favourites. We know they are the better team.”
Meanwhile, the Ireland team will be announced tonight, with Conor Murray and Ronan O’Gara being tipped to start at 9 and 10 respectively.
Ireland will also be sweating on the fitness of Paul O’Connell, who has resumed running, but didn’t train with the team today.
