Italy are considering pulling out of the rugby World Cup in November because of a row over fixtures.

The Italy Rugby Federation (FIR) is angry that organisers have scheduled all of Italy's group matches - against New Zealand, Canada, Wales and Tonga - in the space of just 14 days.

New Zealand have an extra eight days to complete their fixtures.

The Italy Rugby Federation made it clear it would not back down over the issue on its official website.

"The FIR replied to the Rugby World Cup with a strong letter of protest in which we made it clear that if nothing changes, the FIR would consider pulling out of the World Cup," it said.