Tuesday 7 March 2017 09:04, UK
Former Australia international Anthony Minichiello has been appointed as Italy's assistant coach for the 2017 World Cup.
The former Sydney Roosters full-back, who won 19 caps for the Kangaroos but captained the Azzurri in the 2013 World Cup, will be right-hand man to Cameron Ciraldo for the end-of-season tournament in Australia and New Zealand.
Minichiello, a veteran of 302 NRL games, said: "I was privileged to have been involved in the previous Rugby League World Cup as a player, so to now have the opportunity to be in the Italian coaching ranks is something I'm really excited about."
Minichiello's younger brother Mark, the Hull second row forward, is expected to return for the 2017 tournament after missing the European qualifiers through injury.
Italy, who beat Wales and drew with quarter-finalists Scotland in the last World Cup, open their 2017 campaign against Ireland in Cairns on October 29 and also play group matches against the United States and Fiji.
Ciraldo said: "Having the experience and insight of one of the NRL's most respected players in 'Mini' will be invaluable as we look to make a statement at this year's tournament."
