Cian Healy wary of Parisse threat

Ireland prop Cian Healy admits that there is only so much preparation work the side can do ahead of facing Sergio Parisse.

“He is a dangerous player. You can do so much video work on him, but still have no idea what he’s going to do or pull out of the bag.

“Without him, their pack is one of the big things that they have built. Their reputation is deserved and their front row is one of the strongest around. They are all willing to get into a dog fight.”

Healy came through a long stint against Romania as he makes his way back from injury, with the Ireland star ready for the physical battle against the Italian pack this weekend.

“They are big and strong and when you come up with the likes of Martin Castrogiovanni or Dario Chistolini, who both have big reputations, that’s what you thrive on. They have been on top of their game for quite a while.

“The Italian pack is quite like what we have just come out of (against Romania) as they are big, bruising lads. 

"If selected, I will be pretty happy about going into that. The physicality is the bit that comes easy for me.”