Toa Halafihi – Italy
Toa Halafihi has big shoes to fill, as the next in line to Sergio Parisse’s number eight jersey. Taking over at the back of the scrum from Italy’s iconic captain, Halafihi is a rightful replacement. Born in New Zealand, Halafihi qualifies to play for Italy through his four year residency at Benetton.
Already a decorated number eight, Halafihi was apart of Benetton’s Rainbow Cup triumph over the Bulls in 2021. Halafihi has deceptive quickness for a player of his size, with the agility to step opponents in a phone box. Explosive stutter-steps make him an entertaining ball carrier, with an unpredictability in his attack.
Halafihi can crash through opposing defenders, but may shock some supporters with his slight-footedness. With Italy looking to build on their first Six Nations win in seven years, after the beat Wales in the 2022 campaign, Halafihi will be a key figure in the side.
The likes of Halafihi, Paolo Garbisi and Monty Ioane are filling the ‘Azzurri’ with optimism, for another upset victory in this year’s competition.