Wales-born scrum-half Stephen Varney is in self-isolation after returning a positive Covid-19 test.
The uncapped 19-year-old was last week named in a 34-man Italy squad.
He had joined the panel on Monday in preparation for the Six Nations clash with Ireland in Dublin on October 24.
The Italian Rugby Federation have now confirmed the west Walian, who qualifies for Italy through his mother, has tested positive for Covid-19. He’s the only member of their squad to do so.
“FIR has activated all the procedures envisaged and informed the health authorities, in full compliance with the regulations in force,” a statement reads.
“The national team continues the meeting in Rome in compliance with the provisions of the health authority.”
Varney had tested negative in his most recent test with his club Gloucester before making the trip to Rome.
The talented son of former Neath flanker Adrian Varney is asymptomatic, but his Gloucester team-mate Callum Braley and Zebre’s Marcello Violi are now expected to contest the starting scrum-half spot in the game against Ireland.
The Azzurri also have to play England after the cancellation of games caused by the pandemic in March.
