By MARK CASHMAN

Southern Districts have pulled off an enormous coup with the addition of Freddie Michalak to their wider coaching group for the 2021 Shute Shield season.

Michalak, who played 77 Tests for France between 2001 and 2015 including appearances at four Rugby World Cups, will work with the Rebels scrumhalfs and flyhalfs expanding their game management skills through the season.

He married an Australian girl Cindy after a pro career that saw him play in France, the UK and South Africa and he now has strong links to the Burraneer club in southern Sydney where his children play.

“He’s already had a sit down with our nines and tens and all the feedback that I have been getting has been hugely positive,” Souths head coach Todd Louden told Rugby News.