An appendix operation and a fractured right finger have sidelined the front-row forward for much of the season.

But Lo Cicero has regained fitness and has earned his place in the Baa Baas team for the games against Scotland next Tuesday and England a week on Saturday.

The Azzurri international made his debut for the Barbarians at Twickenham last December when he scored a try against New Zealand and he is eager to make another impression this time round.

Scoring another try? he said. I havent thought about it.

But I'm happy to be called up by the Barbarians again after a difficult year, where Ive suffered many injuries.

The Barbarians are a great team, a prestigious team always in the rugby limelight and this call-up means a lot to me.

To be part of this team is brilliant. The spirit is so high and they are always having a laugh. We are going to have some fun in these two games.