Former Bok coach offers Italy a game plan to tame the World Champs

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Former South Africa and Italy coach Nick Mallett has shared some key tactical advice with the Azzurri ahead of their clash with the Springboks in Turin on November 15.

Mallett, who spent four years at the helm of Italy (2007–2011) after previously coaching the Springboks from 1997 to 2000, remains one of rugby’s most respected voices.

At 69, he continues to bring sharp insight and perspective to the global game.

The two sides last met earlier this year, with the Springboks sealing back-to-back wins – 42-24 at Loftus Versfeld and 45-0 at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium.

“Italy caused problems for the Springboks in the first Test in [July], working very well on the breakdown and slowing down the ball. In the second Test, however, South Africa had quicker ball and managed to score 45 points.

“The South Africans know that this is one of Italy’s main strengths: they will have to try to gain quick possession, with plenty of support close to the ball carrier. They will play a direct game, with plenty of physical duels, looking for high kicks to put pressure on the Italian back three.

“It will be crucial for Italy to hold their own in the scrum. You can’t concede six or seven free kicks against South Africa, because the risk is finding yourself in your own half, conceding a maul and then another penalty – perhaps even a yellow card.

“In the first Test in South Africa, Italy were very intelligent: in the scrum, they quickly put the ball into channel one, brought it out immediately, and managed to prevent the pack from retreating. They will have to repeat those solutions. It’s all doable, but they need to be very careful. The set-pieces will be crucial.”

Mallett famously guided South Africa to a record 17 consecutive Test victories during his tenure and knows the pressure of leading the green and gold.

He credits current head coach Rassie Erasmus for the Boks’ ongoing dominance.

“Much of South Africa’s success depends on Rassie Erasmus.

“He’s an exceptional coach, with clear, shared long-term plans. He’s created a system that has three reliable players in each position, all capable of playing in a World Cup final.

“So, if a starter gets injured, the replacement already has international experience and confidence. This is what Italy is lacking at the moment – not talent, but great depth. It’s a very important aspect, although I see great growth in this respect as well.”

When asked about his best memory from his time as Italy coach, Mallett said: “I’ve been very lucky with my group of players.

“I remember telling myself that, to become a good coach in Italy, I had to take guys like Leonardo Ghiraldini or Alessandro Zanni and improve them by 10% every year. After four years, they would be 40% better.

“That’s my fondest memory: watching those players grow. The victory against France in the Six Nations, our first home victory, was unforgettable – the lap of honour, the crowd singing the anthem, an extraordinary feeling. It was the only time I cried as a coach.

“And then the match against the All Blacks at the San Siro, in front of 80,000 people: we lost 20-6 but deserved a penalty try. It was one of the best performances of my tenure. It was also important to see how the players’ perceptions of me changed. At first, they thought I was just there to finish my career and earn some money. But over time, as I learned Italian better and got to know them as people, a real bond developed. The moment of farewell, after the 2011 World Cup, was very touching. I felt like a true friend of those guys.

“Coaching Italy was definitely the best experience of my life.”