Italy players’ strike ends after World Cup deal is struck

Italy’s rugby bosses have brokered a deal to end the players’ strike and set their World Cup preparations back on track.

Italian Rugby Federation (FIR) chiefs agreed new terms with the 40-strong training squad, who will now start their pre-World Cup on Monday, a week later than scheduled.

Italy’s squad refused to train on Monday, frustrated with terms for bonuses in the upcoming World Cup in which they are drawn in Pool D with Ireland, France, Romania and Canada.

The FIR released a statement on Saturday confirming a new deal had been reached, however, to ensure new payment levels for players training now, even if they do not make the final World Cup cut.

"Following the meetings of recent days it has been agreed with the players of the national team to ensure the resumption of training in preparation for Rugby World Cup 2015," read an FIR statement.

“A number of requests made by the players’ agents were considered, and the agreement provides, in particular, financial rewards for all the players called to the pre-season gathering.”

Italy coach Jacques Brunel, stuck in the middle of the dispute, will now hope his players are ready to get down to work.

Italy’s initial 40-man training squad were set to reconvene on Sunday night, before resuming camp activities on Monday.