Italian lock Marco Bortolami has been cleared to face Wales on February 23 after being told he does not need surgery.
Italy and Gloucester lock avoids surgery
Italian lock Marco Bortolami has been cleared to face Wales on February 23 after being told he does not need surgery.
The former Azzurri skipper suffered two fractured bones near his eye in Gloucester's 29-21 Heineken Cup victory over Ulster.
Initial reports had suggested that Bortolami would be sidelined for six weeks - however further examinations in Milan has ruled out the need to operate.
An official statement from the Italian Rugby Federation read: "At the end of the visit, Doctor Brusati has ruled out the need for surgery and believes Marco Bortolami will recover in four weeks' time."
The injury does mean Bortolami will be sidelined for the RBS Six Nations opener against Ireland in Dublin on February 2 as well as the home game against England eight days later.
However, he will be available for selection to face Wales at the Millennium Stadium on February 23.
