Italy cut the fat as Boks await

Tommaso Allan and Robert Barbieri have been released by Italy ahead of this weekend's Test against South Africa.

Perpignan flyhalf Allan and Leicester flank Barbieri had been called up for Italy's three-Test series this month against Samoa, Argentina and the Springboks.

But only Barbieri played any role in the November Tests so far, coming on as a late replacement for Simone Favaro in the 24-13 win over Samoa.

Allan's return to Perpignan follows the promising start at flyhalf of New Zealand-born Kelly Haimona, who kicked 29 combined points for the Azzurri in the win over Samoa and the 18-20 loss to Argentina last week.

A statement from the Azzurri said both players had been "released for upcoming games" for their respective clubs.

Italy will announce their squad for the Springboks on Thursday.