Sergio Parisse approaches rare milestone

Italy captain Sergio Parisse is on the verge of a rare rugby milestone.

Sunday's 38-14 defeat at the hands of Wales brings Parisse just one test loss shy of 100.

After making his test debut in 2002 as an 18-year-old under John Kirwan, the Number Eight hasn't seen a whole lot of silverware with the Azzurri.

Already owner of the most test defeats in world rugby, Parisse could become the first to hit the 100 mark next weekend against Scotland in the closing round of the Six Nations.

Regardless of whether he brings up the century, next weekend will see the 34-year-old collect his 11th Six Nations Wooden Spoon - Italy's 13th since their introduction in 2000.

Widely regarded as one of the world's best at Number Eight, the 133 test veteran is a two-time World Player of the Year nominee (2008, 2013) - the only Italian ever nominated.