Marius Goosen to continue as Italy defence coach

The Italian rugby federation confirmed that Italy defence coach Marius Goosen has extended his contract with the national side until the end of June, 2020.

Goosen, 47, has been in the role since Irishman Conor O'Shea's arrival in March 2016. The South African also works in tandem as the head coach of Italian PRO14 side Benetton.

"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 Benetton.

"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.