On the day World Rugby announced that former Italy captain Sergio Parisse, who earned 142 international caps, will be inducted into their Hall of Fame, the legendary player reflected on the honor and shared his admiration for how South Africa is setting new standards in Test rugby.
Hall of Fame Induction
Parisse expressed his deep appreciation for the recognition, calling it an extraordinary honor. He revealed that John Eales had informed him of the induction a few months earlier, though it had to be kept secret until the official announcement.
“To be part of this group feels surreal. It’s like joining the rugby Gods,” Parisse said, humorously adding, “And then there’s me, who holds the record for the most Test losses!”
ʟᴇɢɢᴇɴᴅᴀ ɪɴ ᴍᴀɢʟɪᴀ ᴀᴢᴢᴜʀʀᴀ 💙
Sergio #Parisse è il primo italiano inserito nella Hall of fame di @WorldRugby ⭐️#insieme #rugbypassioneitaliana pic.twitter.com/zTeSxY6XNr
— Italrugby (@Federugby) November 20, 2024
He emphasized that his career was defined not by victories but by how he played the game. Parisse sought to redefine the role of the number eight, bringing a unique, skill-focused approach to his position. His goal was to consistently deliver quality performances, challenging opposition teams and reshaping perceptions of what an eighth man could achieve.
While he humbly left it to others to judge whether he achieved his ambitions, Parisse said earning the respect of opponents and fans was the most significant reward. He acknowledged that while his national team didn’t win often, his personal contributions and efforts to raise the standard of play were recognized by the rugby community.
A New Chapter in Coaching
Now a coach, Parisse spoke about applying his experience to guide players in the Top 14 and beyond. He described rugby as being in a fascinating period of evolution and highlighted the lessons he continues to learn daily, even after decades of involvement in the sport.
Parisse praised the Springboks, describing their approach as a benchmark in modern rugby. He admired their composure under pressure and their ability to adapt and find solutions to any challenge. While acknowledging their fallibility, as evidenced by Argentina defeating them in the Rugby Championship, Parisse noted the difficulty of overcoming such a well-rounded and formidable team.
The Strengths of the Springboks
According to Parisse, South Africa’s success lies in their completeness as a team. Their strategic adaptability forces opponents to be near-perfect in all facets of the game. He described how they dominate the collisions, forcing opponents to double up in defense, weakening the defensive line. Additionally, their post-contact meters, physicality, and relentless kicking game create constant challenges for opposition teams.
Parisse highlighted the Springboks’ innovative use of their back-row players in wider channels and how the new escort law has further strengthened their aerial game. He commended their back three for their explosive pace and their ability to capitalize on transition moments.
He noted that while other teams possess comparable strengths in specific areas—such as Argentina’s powerful back-row, New Zealand’s strong scrum, or France’s skillful half-backs—no team can currently match South Africa’s sustained intensity and consistency across an entire game.
The Rassie Erasmus Effect
Parisse credited much of South Africa’s success to Rassie Erasmus, who, he said, inspires unwavering belief and commitment within the squad. Erasmus’s ability to connect emotionally with his players and emphasize the significance of representing South Africa has created a unified and focused team