Italian Rugby League governing body FIRL has announced that five NRL players have been selected to represent the Azzurri in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup European Zone Qualifiers which take place this October.
Leading the quintet is Anthony Minichello who first represented Italy as a 19-year old in 1999 when he played in three international matches against Lebanon, Morocco and France, before making his first grade debut the following year for Sydney Roosters.
Known as ‘the Count’ after the Sesame Street character, he has enjoyed a hugely distinguished career in the NRL, making over 200 appearances and winning premierships for the Roosters, representing NSW in State of Origin, gaining 19 Australian caps and claiming the ultimate individual prize when picking up ‘The Golden Boot’ for best player in the world in 2005.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday at Sydney’s Club Marconi, Minichello – who was also announced as captain - noted, “I am very proud to represent Italy once again and am looking forward to assisting the team in securing one of the two remaining spots left in the 2013 World Cup.”
“I will put all my rugby league experience into the squad and the further development of the sport in Italy.”
Joining him in pledging their allegiance to the Italian cause were Vic Mauro (Manly), Cameron Ciraldo (Newcastle Knights) who will be vice captain, Aiden Guerra (Sydney Roosters) and Joel Romelo (Canterbury Bulldogs).
Ciraldo first represented Italy in 2009 when he captained the team in the ‘Mediterranean Four Nations’ tournament.
Italy commence their 2013 World Cup European Zone Qualifiers when they face Russia on 15th October 2011 in Padova and then travel to Belgrade to take on Serbia on October 23rd and Lebanon six days later.
FIRL President Tiziano Franchini acknowledged that the calibre of the players is not only important for his nation’s chances of winning the Qualifiers but will showcase the great spectacle of rugby league in Italy.
“I am very happy and proud to see that these players have expressed their desire to represent the country of their family’s origin, that it is exactly the same feeling that I recognize when Italian players wear the Azzurri shirt,” he commented.
Italy Head Coach Carlo Napolitano added, “There are a number of players that are eligible to represent Italy, not only in Australia but also in France and England. Italian-based players from the domestic competition will play a trial with them to gain their place in the national squad. It is all about having a fair and equitable selection process in place.”
FIRL are now searching for corporate sponsors who are willing to back FIRL’s quest to reach the World Cup.
Franchini stated, “This is also a great opportunity for companies that seek international exposure and want to showcase their company name or product on the world stage which will be displayed on the Italian playing shirt, other clothing and the FIRL website.”