South African-born De Marigny injured the finger on his right hand playing for Overmach Parma in their last game of the Super 10 competition against L'Aquila.

De Marigny said: "I have been told by doctors that I need to rest the finger for at least three weeks before I can touch the ball again.

I'm bitterly disappointed because it is always an honour for me to wear the Azzurri shirt.

Now my aim is to get fit as quick is possible and return to the Italy squad stronger than ever.

De Marigny, who has earned five international caps, first emerged as a fly-half with Natal Sharks, and has progressed well with Parma.

He comes from a talented rugby-playing family, his brother Marc having captained South Africa at Sevens last year.