Culture
Rugby was first played in Italy in the late 1800's, brought to Genoa by British immigrants playing in British country clubs. However the first international game did not take place until 1911 when an American-Milanese team played France, the game drew an audience of local spectators who took interest in the game. The Italian national rugby team was then formed in 1929, the sport was encouraged by the then fascist government in order to build muscle, and increase fitness. Rugby's physical attributes, and tactical finesse make the sport very similar to Calcio Florentino, an aggressive Italian sport that began in the renaissance time period. For a long time Italian rugby was the best of the rest in Europe, due to the fact that the five nations (Ireland, Scotland, Wales, England, and France) excluded Italy from their tournament. It was not until 2000 that Italy was allowed to enter the tournament, giving way to the modern day six nations. To begin with Italy fared poorly in this tournament, however over the following 14 years Italian rugby would develop at a tremendous extent. Regular scalps over France, and Scotland provide evidence of this development, and increased support at home games mean Italy always remains competitive with the best Europe has to offer.
Play Style
: The Italian national rugby team have a very tactical approach to the game, using their kicking prowess to attain territory, and then driving over or swinging the ball wide for a try. The forward pack holds most of Italy's experienced star players giving them the power to dictate the flow of play. The backline is then used in order to attain a territorial position, or execute set plays, although over the years as talent begins to increase in Italy so does the backline stocks giving Italy the possibility of the counterattack. In the set piece Italy use the world-class proping duo of Toulon's Martin Castrogiovanni and Sale's Alberto de Marchi to lay a platform and drive the opposing team into submission. Italy’s lineout is then controlled by captain Sergio Parrise who is often set up as the main jumper, from the lineout Italy then look for the driving maul from where Italy gain many of their try’s if they can push the maul over the line.
Fast Facts:
Players: 77,858
RWC Results: Third in pool 1987, 199, 1995, 2003, 2007, 2011
IRB World Ranking: 14th with 70.92 points
Best Result 2014: Vs. Scotland lost 20-21
Coach: Jacques Brunel Captain Sergio Parisse
Antonio Cinotti