Mallett's powers extended
April 06 2009
After being severely criticised after Italy's poor performance in the Six Nations, Nick Mallett has not only been re-appointed Head Coach of the Azzurri until the next World Cup but will have full control over appointing a new coaching staff.
Another Six Nations wooden spoon would not have been on Nick Mallett's wish list for 2009 and after a few debatable selection decisions - notably the Mauro Bergamasco at scrum-half fiasco - there had been whispers that the South African's job was under threat.
On the contrary, captain Sergio Parisse has been a vocal supporter of the former Springbok and Stade Français boss after a two-day meeting in Parma, the Italian Rugby Federation extended Mallett's contract until after the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.
Mallett himself has made no secret of the need for reform in Italian domestic structures if the national team is to progress and FIR President Giancarlo Dondi has given total liberty to reorganise his coaching staff with an emphasises expected to be played a locals
News of new appointments are due in the coming weeks and French assistant coach Jean-Philippe Cariat is expected to be replaced by former Azzurri captain Alessandro Troncon as Mallett's number two.