New Azzurri skipper and Benetton lock Niccolò Cannone said Friday it was a "dream" to be leading Italy out against South Africa in the second of their summer tests in Pretoria Saturday after their recent record win over Namibia in Winhoek.
    "I think there is no better stage to have the honour of receiving the captain's stripes: I am very happy, I want to thank the staff for giving me this opportunity in such an important match, which I have dreamed of since I was a child, against South Africa in South Africa.

I will try to give my all, as I have always done", the 28-year-old Florentine said on the eve of the formidable clash with the world champions on their home turf.
    "Having the opportunity to play against them here, with all the history they have and have created, is something incredible"; added Cannone.
    But against such a difficult opponent, how much will the problem of injuries, seven in total, further affect the performance of the Azzurri, he was asked.

"There have been some incidents along the way: some of the guys (Nicotera, Negri and Favretto, ed.) have had some problems during the week - he replied.
    "It's nothing serious, but we are in a moment in which it is better not to take risks: it opens up an opportunity for other players to lend a hand and I'm sure that everyone will do their best. We can't wait to get on the pitch".
    The Azzurri's 73-6 win over Namibia was their biggest ever away victory.
    The Pretoria test will be followed by another match-up with the Springboks on their native soil, on July 12 in Port Elizabeth.
   
   

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