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Parisse named Italy's captain
18/01/2008 19:01 - (SA)
Rome - Stade Francais No 8 Sergio Parisse was on Friday named captain of the Italy team to play in this season's Six Nations tournament.
The 24-year-old, who made his debut for Italy in 2002, has won 48 caps and replaces Gloucester lock Marco Bortolami, who captained the Azzurri 37 times under former coach Pierre Berbizier of France who quit after last year's World Cup.
Newly-installed coach Nick Mallet, the former Stade Francais and South Africa trainer, said: "We are ready to write a new chapter in the history of Italian rugby.
"Sergio Parisse is a player who has personality and is respected by his teammates, referees and opponents, all of which are fundamental to becoming captain of the national team."
Parisse expressed his delight at being named skipper.
"I'm very happy," he said. "I'm ready to assume my responsibilities. I spoke for a long time with Mallett and manager Carlo Checchinato, I know my duties.
"I know what motivated the coach to making this choice and what he expects of me."
Italy play Ireland at Croke Park, Dublin, on the opening weekend of the Six Nations on February 2.
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Rugby
