Share

Italy extends contract of SA coach

Rome - Marius Goosen will remain as Italy defensive coach until June 30, 2020 "giving continuity to the relationship started in the summer of 2016," the Italian rugby federation announced on Tuesday.

The 47-year-old South African - director of rugby at Italian Pro14 franchise Treviso - has been part of the national setup since the arrival of Irishman Conor O'Shea as head coach in March 2016.

"I'm happy to be able to continue working with the federation and with Italy, the country that welcomed me fifteen years ago, and to continue the growth path started in the last year and a half, with the arrival of Conor in Italy," said former wing Goosen who arrived in Italy to play for club side Roma in 2004, before playing for Treviso.

"We still have a long way to go to be more competitive, but the collaboration between the National team and the two franchises has never been so profitable.

"I thank the Federation and Conor for allowing me to continue my experience with the national team until after the Rugby World Cup 2019, which is the first medium-long term goal of this group."

Goosen also lined up for the Bulls, Stormers and Falcons in South Africa during his playing career.

Italy continue their Six Nations campaign against Ireland in Dublin next Saturday, followed by France and Wales, before a finale against Scotland back in Rome on March 17.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1142 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1327 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2026 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE