Italy will be competing in their first Women’s Rugby World Cup in 15 years this summer and captain Sara Barattin cannot wait for it to get underway.
Italy had failed to qualify for the last three editions of the tournament since their last appearance in 2002.
But their impressive form in the Women’s Six Nations which has seen them win half of their games over the qualifying period and even finish third in 2015 earned them a spot by rights.
And Barattin – whose side are drawn in Pool B alongside tournament holders England, USA and Spain – cannot wait for it to get underway in Ireland next month.
“The emotion of leading Italy at a World Cup will be enormous,” she said.
“We will face three hard teams including England, the tournament holders.
“I’ve been following this tournament for so many years. To be part of this group is an honour. The team always supports me in the choices. And having the experience of Silvia Gaudino available will be important to both me and all the girls. “
Italy’s second row Alice Trevisan added: “I have a great motivation that always pushes me to give 100%.
“There is a lot of belief in our group: it’s the support column of this team, both on and off the field. We are in great harmony and this helps us a lot even during matches.”
And centre Maria Magatti was also prepared to give her all for the cause in Ireland this summer.
“The World Cup requires a great deal of effort,” she said.
“We have to try to fit all the different components together to make the best of it. In this team the group is a fundamental part: we are united, we know very well. Being polished in everyday life helps a lot in being in the field as well.
“We have achieved an important goal that we have been pursuing for a long time. It has been a long and tiring journey: to be part of the Women’s World Cup is a great satisfaction.”
