Former Stormers scrumhalf Dewaldt Duvenage is placing his bets on the Springbok pack to trample over Italy’s forwards in their upcoming clash at Loftus Versfeld. Given his six-year stint with Benetton, the primary feeder club for Italy's Test squad, Duvenage knows a thing or two about where the Azzurri might falter. According to him, the Italian pack's inability to secure quality ball from the set pieces is going to throw a wrench in their game plan, especially when it comes to unleashing their midfield maestros.
"I doubt whether Italy will get good possession from the set pieces,"
Duvenage explained, highlighting how such struggles could neutralize Italy’s potential threats from the center field. The ex-scrumhalf doesn’t see the Azzurri keeping up beyond the initial stages. “They may be able to hold on in the first half, but with the match being played on the Highveld, I can’t see Italy staying in the second half.”
Italy’s lineup has been further weakened by injuries to key players like hooker and captain Giacomo Nicotera and flanker Sebastian Negri. Stepping into the fray are Tommaso Di Bartolomeo, a greenhorn with only one cap, and a back row comprising Lorenzo Cannone, Manuel Zuliani, and Alessandro Izekor, who brings athleticism and a knack for scoring out wide.
"Zuliani is an up-and-coming guy and very good,"
Duvenage remarked, also praising Izekor's dynamic play for Benetton. Despite recognizing the fresh talent, Duvenage remains skeptical about their chances against the Boks’ robust defence. He noted the potential in Italy’s midfield duo, Alessandro Fusco and Giacomo Da Re, and a promising back three including Jacopo Trulla, Louis Lynagh, and Simone Gesi. However, he doubts they'll find much room to maneuver against a solid South African defence.
With Duvenage set to coach Western Province's backline in this year’s Currie Cup, his insights carry an air of authority. As Saturday approaches, it looks like Italy will need more than just a few tricks up their sleeve to contend with the Bok’s formidable presence on the field.