Pritchard called up by Canada
He was called up by coach Kieran Crowley on Thursday.
The 36-year-old Pritchard – who has accrued 607 points in 61 Tests dating back to 2003 – replaces Liam Underwood, who injured a knee in last Saturday's 50-7 mauling by Ireland.
Canada play Italy on Saturday, but Pritchard won't feature at Elland Road, Leeds. His chance will come later in the tournament.
"It's unfortunate for Liam to not be able to finish this World Cup as he is a versatile player for us, having the ability to play No.10 and No.15 and his goal-kicking abilities," said Crowley.
"We've been in discussion with James over the last month and he obviously brings a level of experience to the team and he can play a number of positions if called upon."
Pritchard, who has scored 45 points in his nine appearances at the previous three World Cups, joins the likes of Canadian greats Gareth Rees and Al Charron to have been a part of four World Cup tournaments.
"I'm incredibly excited to play in my fourth World Cup for Canada," said Pritchard, who has scored 18 tries.
"To represent your country on the biggest stage in the world is the goal of every rugby player.
"It's unfortunate that it comes at the expense of Liam, who I wish a quick recovery," added Pritchard, who also holds the Canadian record for points in one Test with 36.
Italy lost their opening Pool D match 32-10 to France.
Canada: 15 Matt Evans, 14 Phil Mackenzie, 13 Ciaran Hearn, 12 Connor Braid, 11 DTH van der Merwe, 10 Nathan Hirayama, 9 Jamie Mackenzie, 8 Tyler Ardron (captain), 7 John Moonlight, 6 Nanyak Dala, 5 Jamie Cudmore, 4 Jebb Sinclair, 3 Doug Wooldridge, 2 Ray Barkwill, 1 Hubert Buydens.
Replacements: 16 Aaron Carpenter, 17 Djustice Sears-Duru, 18 Andrew Tiedemann, 19 Evan Olmstead, 20 Kyle Gilmour, 21 Phil Mack, 22 Connor Trainor, 23 Harry Jones.
Date: Saturday, September 26
Venue: Elland Road, Leeds
Kick-off: 14.30 (13.30 GMT; 15.30 Italian time; 07.30 Canadian time):
Referee: George Clancy (Ireland)
Assistant referees: Glen Jackson (New Zealand), Mike Fraser (New Zealand)
TMO: George Ayoub (Australia)
Agence France-Presse
