Italy second rower Cameron Ciraldo suffered a lacerated pancreas in the game against Tonga at Halifax on Sunday night and is likely to require surgery before being allowed to travel home.
Ciraldo is due to take up a position in coaching and development at the Penrith Panthers after having completed his World Cup duties with the Italian side.
He was rushed to hospital by ambulance after complaining of back and stomach problems on arrival after the match at the team’s Leeds headquarters. Italy team manager Reno Santaguida will remain in Leeds to ensure Ciraldo is assisted in his recovery. Penrith coach and New Zealand assistant coach Ivan Cleary has visited Ciraldo in hospital as have the player’s parents who were at the Shay to see their son’s final game.
