Brendan Venter to assist Italy until 2019 RWC

Brendan Venter has re-signed as Italy's defence coach until the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Italy Rugby Union confirms.

"I played and worked with Brendan to London Irish in the past and I believe that this agreement is the best it can be, for us and for him," Italy coach Conor O'Shea commented.

"We are excited to be working with him for years to come. He's a coach respected by the whole international rugby scene and we are proud that he wants to join our project with Italy until the next Rugby World Cup. "

Venter, who earned 17 caps for the Springboks, worked with the Azzurri for last year's autumn internationals and was part of the coaching team that led Italy to their historic win over South Africa.