Italians disorganised - but still have a chance

By CHRIS RATTUE

Distracted and disorganised. That is the distinct impression given by Italy as they enter their fifth Cup tournament, although they still stand a reasonable chance of making the quarter-finals.

Their coach, John Kirwan, even talked about a World Cup boycott after learning of the ridiculous draw they have been handed.

Even their low-key tour of New Zealand this year against provincial opposition was hit by the sort of problem that seems to follow Kirwan since his controversial elevation from assistant to replace another former All Black, Brad Johnstone.

Flying flanker Mauro Bergamasco refused to make the New Zealand tour because Kirwan insisted on playing the 23-year-old as a wing.

While Bergamasco has been reinstated in the Cup squad as a forward, there have been other disruptions, including the dumping of assistant coach Leicester Rutledge and first five-eighths Ramiro Pez.

Rima Wakarua, a former North Harbour representative who has played in the Italian second division for five seasons, replaced Pez and may now steer Italy around the World Cup fields without having played in any lead-up games.

Italy's form in New Zealand was poor as Kirwan worked on specific areas, especially their defence. Kirwan decided a year ago, after Cup qualifying wins over Romania and Spain, that Italy needed to reinvent their game.

But they have continued to struggle, apart from beating the shambolic Welsh in the Six Nations this year.

Pez got the boot after Italy struggled against unfancied Georgia, following massive defeats by Scotland and Ireland.

Among the Italians to watch will be No 8 Sergi Parisse, who has just turned 20 and is already a key member of the pack. New Zealand loose forwards Aaron Persico, Matt Phillips and Scott Palmer are also in the pack, and the squad include South African-born fullback Gert Peens.

A major factor in Italy's favour is being placed in a weak pool.

New Zealand will qualify, but even these Italians could oust Wales, Canada and Tonga despite the draw from hell - four games in 14 days.

Rumours abound that Kirwan will field a second-string line-up against New Zealand in their Cup opener, a recipe for certain heavy defeat.

That would free Italy's top players to make a charge that could bring them World Cup glory of sorts.

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