Varney to miss out on Italian debut due to Covid-19 test

Gloucester scrumhalf Stephen Varney will not make his international debut as planned after he has tested positive for Covid-19.

Varney, 19, has been in fine form for Gloucester of late, earning himself a call-up to the Italian national squad for whom he qualifies through his mother.

After travelling to Rome to join the 34-man squad on Monday, Varney tested positive for Covid, however, fortunately, he was the only one.

More good news is that he appears to be asymptomatic.

Varney’s story is an interesting one; born in Pembrokeshire, Wales, he attended Ysgol y Preseli in Crymych. His school side managed to win the Welsh U16 Cup and it was there that the Italians first took notice. From Ysgol y Preseli, he moved on to Hartpury College – a main breeding ground for Gloucester – and was soon snapped up by the Cherry-&-Whites. It appears, however, that, despite growing up in the UK, playing for the Azzurri remains his goal.