All Blacks coach Henry knighted

Updated December 31, 2011 10:36:41

All Blacks coach Graham Henry, who guided New Zealand to Rugby World Cup victory in October, has been rewarded with a knighthood in the nation's New Year's honours list.

Henry, now Sir Graham, has been made a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for his service to the national sport.

The honour comes after he redeemed himself in the eyes of a rugby-obsessed New Zealand public by taking the All Blacks to the World Cup win, albeit by a narrow 8-7 margin over France in the final.

Four years earlier, Henry had been publicly castigated in New Zealand when, again under his stewardship, the All Blacks crashed out of the 2007 World Cup in the quarter finals.

"I feel very honoured, very humbled in getting this award," Henry said after the knighthood was announced.

"Obviously winning the Rugby World Cup put the icing on the cake.

"I don't think I'd be standing here today if we hadn't done that."

The 65-year-old Henry, who is affectionately known as "Ted", stepped down as All Blacks coach after the World Cup ending a remarkable era which saw him rated as one of the most successful coaches in any sport.

In eight years at the helm, the All Blacks played 103 Tests and returned a winning average of 85.4 percent.

Henry has since turned down offers to join overseas clubs but said he is keen to develop an advisory coaching role, and not just for rugby.

"If I can pass some knowledge on to other coaches, not only in rugby but other sports, I'd enjoy that."

Richie McCaw, who captained the All Blacks to their World Cup victory, turned down the offer of an immediate knighthood saying it did not seem appropriate while he was still playing.

AFP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, rugby-union-world-cup, new-zealand

First posted December 31, 2011 08:47:46

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Eddie Jones named as new Japan coach

Updated December 27, 2011 10:11:51

Former Wallabies coach Eddie Jones has been appointed head coach of Japan's national rugby team to replace All Blacks legend John Kirwan.

Jones, 51, took the Wallabies to the 2003 World Cup final and was technical adviser to South Africa when the Springboks won the 2007 World Cup in France.

"I'm very excited and honoured to have the job as head coach of Japan," Jones said.

"The first thing we're going to have to do is to win. I want Japan to win and be in the top ten in the world. We need to develop a solid play that suits Japanese players.

"We've got a very big challenge ahead us.

"The great thing about Japanese rugby is we have a very strong domestic company competition and strong university and high school competitions.

"We're going to quickly add in 30 or 40 players for the next World Cup."

Jones, whose wife is Japanese, has been managing Japan's Top League side Suntory Sungoliath since 2009.

In the 2010-2011 season, Suntory finished runners-up in the Top League and won the separate national championship under Jones. This season they are currently leading the Top League after eight straight wins.

He emerged as Kirwan's likely successor after Japan came home winless from the 2011 Rugby World Cup in New Zealand.

Japan will host the World Cup in 2019 and will be looking to avoid the embarrassment of becoming the first host country to fail to make the knockout stages.

Kirwan failed to break the Brave Blossoms' 20-year World Cup win drought at the New Zealand tournament.

He opted not to seek a new contract to his current five-year deal which expires at the end of this month.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, japan

First posted December 26, 2011 19:48:00

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Pumas coach given extension

Updated December 22, 2011 13:25:03

Argentina coach Santiago 'Tati' Phelan, who steered the Pumas to the 2011 Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, has been handed a new two-year contract.

After a third place finish at the 2007 World Cup in France, the South Americans went out in the quarter-finals to hosts and eventual champions New Zealand earlier this year.

"Tati's appointment as trainer confirms our interest in ratifying his tenure, which was extremely satisfactory from various points of view," Argentine Rugby Union (UAR) president Luis Castillo said.

"Now is the time to continue working to improve day by day and face a new calendar with a lot of activity."

Ranked seventh in the world, they will make their debut in a major annual competition next year when they take part in the new southern hemisphere championship with Australia, New Zealand and South Africa which is replacing the Tri-Nations.

Never before have they faced a year with 12 test matches, having had to sit by and watch the Tri-Nations and Six Nations from afar and make do with only six matches, three in each of the year's two test windows.

Fellow former Pumas Fabian Turnes, Mauricio Reggiardo and Marti Gaitan will continue as Phelan's coaching staff.

Daniel Hourcade was confirmed as coach of the Pampas XV, a reserve side that won South Africa's Vodacom Cup this year.

Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, argentina

First posted December 22, 2011 13:25:03

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Hansen named All Blacks coach

Updated December 16, 2011 15:14:21

New Zealand Rugby Union has appointed Steve Hansen as the new coach of the world champion All Blacks, replacing Graham Henry who stepped down after winning the World Cup.

Hansen was widely tipped to get the prestigious role after serving as Henry's assistant for the past eight years.

The 52-year-old former policeman did not announce who his assistants would be.

The previous coaching team was in place for eight years, but as well as Henry stepping down backs coach Wayne Smith has moved to the Super Rugby side Waikato Chiefs.

Making the announcement, NZRU chairman Mike Eagle said Hansen was the best possible candidate for the job.

"I want to congratulate him on his appointment," he said.

"He is an outstanding coach and has been a key part of a hugely successful All Blacks team since becoming an assistant coach in 2004.

"He has huge respect and backing from the team and his peers and is the right man to now lead the team."

Eagle said having a World Cup-winning coach involved in leading the team forward was a huge advantage and allowed for a seamless transition.

Hansen said he was both excited and honoured to be chosen to succeed Henry.

"I have huge pride in New Zealand rugby and I'm passionate about the All Blacks and New Zealand," he said.

"I feel humbled and proud to be given the opportunity to lead the team into its next phase.

"My aim will be to leave the team in a better shape than how I found it and to enhance its legacy."

Hansen has been appointed for a two-year term and was the only candidate recommended by an appointment panel to go through to an interview with the full NZRU Board.

His preferred coaching team has also been unanimously approved by the NZRU and will be announced once employment details are settled.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted December 16, 2011 13:52:01

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Wilkinson retires from Test rugby

Updated December 13, 2011 07:03:23

England fly half great Jonny Wilkinson, the second-highest points scorer in history, has retired from international rugby union.

"I would like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from international rugby," Wilkinson said in a statement.

"To do so fills me with great sadness, but I know I have been blessed in so many ways to have experienced what I have with the England rugby team," Wilkinson added.

The former Newcastle playmaker said he would continue playing for Toulon, the French club he joined in 2009.

"For me now, I will continue to focus ever harder on my goal of being the very best I can be with Toulon Rugby Club and continue to embrace and enjoy wherever that path takes me."

Wilkinson assured himself of a place in rugby union history with his extra-time drop goal that saw England win the 2003 World Cup final against hosts Australia in Sydney.

But afterwards his Test career was blighted by a succession of injuries and at the recent World Cup in New Zealand even his normally reliable goal-kicking let him down as England, beset by off-field problems, crashed out in the quarter-finals to France.

Widely regarded as the best defensive fly half Test rugby has seen, Wilkinson's international retirement means England will start the defence of its Six Nations title away to Scotland in February without him in its squad.

The 32-year-old Wilkinson bowed out from Tests as England's record points scorer with 1,179 points from 91 Test matches, a haul comprising six tries, 162 conversions, 239 penalties and a record 36 drop goals.

He also scored 67 points in six Tests for the British and Irish Lions on tours of Australia (2001) and New Zealand (2005) for an overall tally of 1,246 - second only behind All Black Dan Carter.

But in the view of some pundits, Wilkinson became symptomatic of all that was wrong with a misfiring and conservative England attack in that during his numerous injury absences none of his possible successors were able to make the number 10 shirt truly their own.

Wilkinson's statement added: "To say I have played through four World Cups, two Lions tours, 91 international games and a ridiculous number of injuries and other setbacks gives me an incredibly special feeling of fulfilment.

"But by now I know myself well enough to know that I will never truly be satisfied!" he added.

"It goes without saying that I would like to wish Stuart Lancaster, his coaches and the England squad every bit of success available to them," added Wilkinson, who also saluted the much criticised England backroom staff at this year's World Cup, of whom only scrum supremo Graham Rowntree will be working with interim boss Lancaster.

"I would also very much like to extend those wishes to Martin Johnson, Brian Smith, Mike Ford, John Wells, Graham Rowntree and the rest of the England 2011 World Cup management team who have been fantastic and deserve people to know that."

Fellow World Cup winner Lewis Moody, England's captain in New Zealand before announcing his Test retirement in October, told Sky Sports he'd been "humbled" to have played alongside Wilkinson.

"I'm saddened but his contribution over the years, his work ethic, professionalism and commitment, has been immense," the Bath flanker said.

"The fact he missed four years of international rugby but still amassed 97 caps is unimaginable," Moody said.

"It's a real shame he's decided to retire but what he's given to the sport, and a generation, is immense."

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted December 13, 2011 07:03:23

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Guildford cops ban for drunken rampage

Updated December 14, 2011 10:22:34

All Blacks and Crusaders winger Zac Guildford has been barred from the first Super Rugby game next year as punishment for his drunken spree in the Cook Islands last month.

In a ruling following a New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) misconduct hearing, Guildford was also ordered to undergo alcohol treatment and counselling at his own expense.

Guildford was in the small Pacific island nation for a friend's wedding when he staggered naked, drunk and bleeding into a bar and allegedly assaulted two people.

He was also accused of harrassing an athlete and making lewd sexual comments as she was on a training run along a road on the main island Rarotonga.

The NZRU ruled Guildford's conduct was unprofessional and brought the game into disrepute, and imposed a four-match ban covering the Crusaders' three preseason matches and their opening Super Rugby game against the Blues.

It was the second time in two months that Guildford and alcohol have hit the headlines after he was publicly reprimanded for his behaviour by the All Blacks management during the Rugby World Cup.

"Taking players out of rugby is not something we do lightly. But we have taken into account the fact that with regard to alcohol-related behaviour, Zac does not have an exemplary record," NZRU manager Sorensen said.

"On this occasion, he embarrassed himself, his family, his team-mates, and New Zealand Rugby. We believe Zac brought the game into disrepute and the sanctions reflect the gravity of the situation and the need for a real pathway to recovery."

Guildford acknowledged in a statement that his behaviour had been unacceptable, and he was working to resolve his issues.

"I am embarrassed by what has happened, but I know that I let down the many people who support me," he said.

"I am focussed on getting myself into the place I need to be when I return to rugby next year."

AFP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted December 14, 2011 10:22:34

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Sharpe wins RUPA award

Updated December 14, 2011 20:21:44

Western Force captain Nathan Sharpe has taken out the Rugby Union Players' Association Medal for Excellence for a third time.

The medal is voted on by all Australian-based rugby union professionals.

In his 14th Super Rugby campaign, Sharpe surpassed former Brumbies playmaker George Gregan as the most capped player in the competition across all three SANZAR countries and joins the former half-back as a three-time award winner.

In 2011 Sharpe also broke the club's long standing consecutive appearance record when he played his 53rd straight match for the Force.

AAP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, perth-6000, wa, australia

First posted December 14, 2011 20:21:44

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Giteau enjoys first win with Toulon

Updated December 14, 2011 12:16:09

Former Wallabies star Matt Giteau has enjoyed his first win with French Top 14 club Toulon.

The 92-Test ace teamed with English World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson as Toulon climbed to third spot on the ladder with a 34-12 victory over Agen on Tuesday.

Toulon's tries came courtesy of Gabriele Lovobalavu in the third minute, Jone Tawake (38), Leo Senatore (46) and Konstantine Mikautadze two minutes from time.

Twenty-four hours after he announced he was quitting the international scene, Wilkinson added 12 points from four penalties, but also missed several other goals including all three conversion attempts.

The 2003 World Cup hero collected his penalties for Bernard Laporte's side in the 10th, 21st, 23rd and 55th minutes before the fly half received a standing ovation when he was replaced with 18 minutes left.

After the game Laporte, talking about Wilkinson's decision to concentrate on club rugby, remarked: "It was his decision, there was no pressure (from Toulon), but it's all the better for the club.

"He's 32, he took the wisest decision. If he had decided to continue he had more to lsoe than to gain. I wasn't surprised by his choice."

Laporte added: "It's not insignificant to end an international career like his. I'm sure he is emotional and must still be thinking about it."

Toulon moved on to 35 points, five behind second-placed Clermont with table toppers Toulouse on 43.

Agen are fifth with 32 points.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, france

First posted December 14, 2011 12:07:45

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Wilkinson announces international retirement

Updated December 13, 2011 18:33:43

England's World Cup winning star fly half Jonny Wilkinson, who famously broke Australian hearts in 2003, has retired from international rugby.

The 32-year-old kicked the winning drop goal in extra-time in the World Cup Final against Australia in Sydney in 2003.

He ends his career as England's record points-scorer with 1,179 points from 91 matches and is second on the all-time list behind only All Black Dan Carter.

Wilkinson said he would play on with French club side Toulon.

"I would like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from international rugby," Wilkinson said in a statement on his website.

"To do so fills me with great sadness, but I know I have been blessed in so many ways to have experienced what I have with the England rugby team."

Wilkinson's feat in 2003 assured him a place in rugby union history.

But afterwards his Test career was blighted by a succession of injuries and at the recent World Cup in New Zealand even his normally reliable goalkicking, so long a cornerstone of his game, let him down as England, beset by off-field problems, crashed out in the quarter-finals to France.

Wilkinson bowed out with a haul comprising six tries, 162 conversions, 239 penalties and a record 36 drop goals.

He also scored 67 points in six Tests for the British and Irish Lions on tours of Australia (2001) and New Zealand (2005) for an overall tally of 1,246.

But in the view of some pundits, Wilkinson became symptomatic of all that was wrong with a misfiring and conservative England attack in that during his numerous injury absences none of his possible successors were able to make the number 10 shirt truly their own.

Wilkinson's statement added: "To say I have played through four World Cups, two Lions tours, 91 international games and a ridiculous number of injuries and other setbacks gives me an incredibly special feeling of fulfilment.

"But by now I know myself well enough to know that I will never truly be satisfied!" he added.

Fellow World Cup winner Lewis Moody, England's captain in New Zealand before announcing his Test retirement in October, told Sky Sports he'd been "humbled" to have played alongside Wilkinson.

"I'm saddened but his contribution over the years, his work ethic, professionalism and commitment, has been immense," the Bath flanker said.

"The fact he missed four years of international rugby but still amassed 97 caps is unimaginable," Moody said.

"It's a real shame he's decided to retire but what he's given to the sport, and a generation, is immense."

Stuart Lancaster, appointed England's acting head coach following the post World Cup resignation of team manager Martin Johnson (the 2003 World Cup winning captain) also paid tribute to Wilkinson.

"Jonny has had a fantastic international career which has spanned four World Cups and 91 caps and ranks as one of England's greatest ever players," Lancaster said in a Rugby Football Union (RFU) statement.

"He will of course be remembered for that drop-goal but he is more than that, a model sportsman - down to earth and hard working, who has never stopped trying to be the best that he can."

ABC/AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted December 13, 2011 06:04:38

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England turn to Lancaster for Six Nations

Updated December 09, 2011 11:33:25

England continued to cut ties with their dismal World Cup campaign when Stuart Lancaster was named caretaker coach for next year's Six Nations championship.

Lancaster will take charge while a permanent replacement is sought for Martin Johnson, with Graham Rowntree and Andy Farrell as his assistants.

Johnson resigned last month after England's World Cup quarter-final exit following a disappointing tournament rife with problems on and off the pitch.

Attacking coach Brian Smith did not seek a new contract following criticism of his performance by the England players and the future of two other members of Johnson's coaching team, Mike Ford and John Wells, is under discussion, acting Rugby Football Union (RFU) chief executive Stephen Brown said.

The 42-year-old Lancaster, a former Leeds forward, is currently in charge of the second-string England Saxons team. His first game in charge of England will be the start of its Six Nations defence against Scotland on February 4.

"I am proud to have this opportunity and feel a great sense of responsibility," Lancaster told a news conference.

"I am very privileged to be here. We have 41 games before the next World Cup and we want players with talent and character who are hungry and ambitious to achieve."

Reuters

Tags: rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom

First posted December 09, 2011 11:33:25

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Gill extends Reds' contract

Updated December 07, 2011 15:22:36

Young Queensland Reds flanker Liam Gill has signed an extension that will keep him at the Super Rugby champions until the end of 2013.

The 19-year-old enjoyed a successful inaugural season as a fulltime squad member in 2011 and capped a memorable year by also winning the Queensland Premier Rugby title with his club Sunnybank.

Gill made his Super Rugby debut off the bench for the Reds in round three against the Brumbies.

He later made his run-on debut against the Western Force in round 17 when he went head-to-head with Australia's first-choice openside flanker and captain David Pocock from the Western Force.

Queensland coach Ewen McKenzie was delighted to keep Gill at the Reds.

"He has a big future ahead of him and to see him already offer so much on the playing field at such a young age is exciting for the team and our fans," he said.

AAP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted December 07, 2011 12:54:52

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Barnes 'getting back to his best'

Updated December 06, 2011 11:05:53

Resurgent Wallabies back Berrick Barnes is convinced he is almost back to his best after producing two strong performances at the end of a tough year.

Sidelined for the latter stages of the Super Rugby tournament following issues with footballer's migraine, Barnes just squeezed into the Wallabies' World Cup squad.

He then formed an exciting new midfield combination with James O'Connor on Australia's two-match tour of Britain, playing primarily at inside centre with the latter calling the shots from five-eighth.

With first-choice playmaker Quade Cooper sidelined by a serious knee injury, Barnes relished the chance to start the tour matches against the Barbarians and Wales.

"I feel like I'm getting back to my best sort of footy in the last couple of games, which has been good and that comes with consistent footy and it comes with getting opportunities starting games as well," Barnes told reporters at Sydney Airport on Tuesday.

A strong contender to play five-eighth for the Waratahs next year, Barnes admitted Wallabies coach Robbie Deans clearly preferred to use him at inside centre.

"I've enjoyed playing it and at the end of the day I'll take a Test start wherever I can get it and especially after the year I've had," Barnes said.

"It's been great to get back into the Test side and more importantly just enjoy my footy.

"It was a pretty big call to take me on that World Cup squad so I appreciate that, but there's been a lot of hard work and stuff behind closed doors."

Barnes was impressed with the way O'Connor handled the switch to a major playmaking role.

"He did extremely well in his first outing there at Test level," Barnes said.

While he was one of the success stories of the tour, Barnes was not taking anything for granted and expected Cooper to come back better than ever from his surgery.

Winger Lachie Turner said he would undergo scans to ascertain the extent of a fractured thumb suffered against Wales.

AAP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, rugby-union-world-cup, super-14, sydney-2000, nsw, australia

First posted December 06, 2011 11:05:53

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SBW to fight for heavyweight belt

Updated December 06, 2011 12:36:07

All Blacks back Sonny Bill Williams will seek to add a boxing title to his Rugby World Cup winner's medal when he fights for the New Zealand heavyweight belt next year.

The former rugby league international will fight 33-year-old Richard Tutaki for the vacant title in Hamilton on February 8.

Williams has a clause in his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union that allows him to continue to compete in the ring.

The 26-year-old has had four bouts, winning them all while Tutaki has won 19 of his 41 fights with one draw and 21 losses.

AAP

Tags: boxing, sport, rugby-union, new-zealand

First posted December 06, 2011 12:31:20

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Barnes fit to face Wales

Updated November 30, 2011 08:37:26

Wallabies playmaker Berrick Barnes has declared himself fit for Saturday's Test against Wales in Cardiff.

The injury-plagued inside centre hurt his shoulder in Australia's 60-11 victory over the Barbarians last weekend at Twickenham.

The man of the match in Australia's 21-18 victory over Wales in last month's World Cup bronze medal match trained with the national team on Tuesday afternoon in miserable conditions on the outskirts of Cardiff.

He is expected to line up at No.12 for the second straight week outside of new fly half James O'Connor.

Barnes, who this year battled migraines, showed some discomfort talking to the media on Tuesday but was confident of being ready for Saturday.

"I was a bit frustrated on the weekend, because something innocuous like that it just shits you because you are just wrong place, wrong time," he said.

"Every time I seem to go on spring tour I always seem to get injured.

"I have done an ankle, done a knee, done a few other things and did my knee in Italy the year before. It is just the way it goes.

"Last year I did not miss a game and this year I have had head problems. I just try to stay in the game."

Wales coach Warren Gatland made six changes to his team for Shane Williams' farewell match at Millennium Stadium.

The New Zealand mentor put on a mask with Williams' face on it as part of 'Shane Williams Day' in the Welsh camp on Tuesday.

Gatland said his players had to put the clamps on the Wallabies and that he was not upset by O'Connor being shifted from wing to fly half.

"I am happy that he is playing at No.10 than on the wing," he said.

"I think he is an outstanding winger as well. That is the key for the Australian team is not give them space.

"Not let them off-load."

Captain Sam Warburton returns after missing last month's match against the Wallabies through suspension.

Centre Scott Williams, half-back Lloyd Williams, fly half Rhys Priestland, lock Ian Evans and prop Scott Andrews have also all been named in the starting line-up.

Injuries ruled out centre Jonathan Davies, lock Alun Wyn Jones, props Paul James and Adam Jones while halves Mike Phillips and James Hook were not released by their French clubs.

Wales:

Leigh Halfpenny, George North, Scott Williams, Jamie Roberts, Shane Williams, Rhys Priestland, Lloyd Williams; Toby Faletua, Sam Warburton (capt), Dan Lydiate; Ian Evans, Bradley Davies; Scott Andrews, Huw Bennett, Gethin Jenkins

Replacements: Matthew Rees, Ryan Bevington, Ryan Jones, Justin Tipuric, Tavis Knoyle, Dan Biggar, Alex Cuthbert

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, australia, wales, united-kingdom

First posted November 30, 2011 07:13:27

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Wales set to test O'Connor

Updated December 02, 2011 17:45:26

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans has urged James O'Connor to keep an open mind on his playing position, as he prepares for the playmaking role against Wales this weekend.

O'Connor is set for a stern test of his fly half credentials from a young, confident Welsh side determined to send departing winger Shane Williams out on a winning note at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium on Sunday (AEDT).

The assured and versatile O'Connor made a bright start in his first appearance at number 10 for the Wallabies in last weekend's 60-11 rout of the Barbarians at Twickenham.

With close friend and regular fly half Quade Cooper out injured, O'Connor has hinted that his time in the position is only a temporary measure and he is best suited to inside centre.

But Deans sent a reminder that the 21-year-old's long-term role is not settled and the team's best interests should come first in deciding it.

"His stated preference is 12 but you find over time that players let go of their individual preference and ideally start to think of what is in the best interests of the group and team," he said.

"He is of great value where ever he is, so it does not matter in the long run but he is capable of mastering both (inside centre and fly half)."

The Welsh backs have spent the past week devising plans to stifle O'Connor.

"It will be a different experience but he is conscious of that," Deans said.

O'Connor would not be the first to make a successful transition from the outside backs to fly half for Australia.

Wallabies great Stephen Larkham was full-back before being shifted to number 10 for the national team in 1998.

There were concerns raised about Larkham's tactical kicking but he more than made up for any shortcomings with his ability to ghost through the tightest defences.

Larkham played in the Wallabies' sides that won the World Cup in 1999 and reached the final in 2003.

O'Connor also has an uncanny ability to shed tackles.

The youngster's opposite number in Cardiff will be the impressive Rhys Priestland, one of the revelations of the 2011 World Cup before being hit by injury.

Priestland, who missed the Wallabies' 21-18 win over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match, says the Welsh have done their homework on O'Connor.

"We have been working hard all week trying to nullify him," he said.

"We are going to try to limit the amount of damage he can do."

The Wallabies are bracing for exciting wing veteran Williams to be provided with plenty of ball in his last chance to bamboozle international opposition.

But Priestland says the little man with the dancing feet will not receive any special service.

"For that 80 minutes it is just Wales versus Australia, it does not really matter who is retiring or who is in their first game," Priestland said.

"It is just us against them and afterwards we will celebrate what a great career he has had.

"But if it is not on to give it to Shane, we are not just going to give it to Shane."

Wallabies outside centre Rob Horne is in doubt for Sunday's match after pulling up with hamstring tightness.

He is likely to be replaced by Anthony Faingaa.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, united-kingdom, australia

First posted December 02, 2011 17:45:26

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Aussies fifth at Dubai Sevens

Updated December 04, 2011 16:12:45

Australia's men's team defeated South Africa in the plate final on Saturday to finish fifth at the Dubai Sevens tournament.

Australia won the match 17-14, a third tier title decider between defeated quarter-finalists, having been thrashed by eventual champion Fiji in its last eight match.

Australia trailed South Africa 14-5 at half-time but bounced back with tries to Hamish Angus and Lewis Holland, who scored after the final siren, to steal the win.

The victory moves Australia up to sixth spot after two rounds of the the IRB World Sevens Series, following last weekend's event on the Gold Coast where the home side finished fourth.

The third leg of the series is in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, next weekend, with Australia grouped with South Africa, Canada and Kenya.

Meanwhile, the Australian women's team defeated United States 22-5 to secure third place.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, rugby-7, sport, united-arab-emirates

First posted December 04, 2011 16:12:45

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Brumbies let former skipper Hoiles go

Updated November 30, 2011 19:37:20

The Brumbies have released injury-plagued former skipper Stephen Hoiles from the final year of his Super Rugby contract.

Hoiles has battled an Achilles problem for the past 18 months, playing only the opening game of the 2011 season.

The 30-year-old intends to play again, but it will not be with the Canberra-based side with which he spent six seasons including two years as captain in 2009 and 2010.

"Because of my injury, this past year has been a difficult one for the club and for me, but we have had a good discussion and I feel very comfortable with the decision we have mutually agreed on," Hoiles said in a statement on Wednesday.

"My rehab is coming along well and it's my intention to return to the playing field in the not too distant future.

"Where exactly that will be is something that will unravel in the months ahead."

AAP

Tags: super-14, rugby-union, sport, canberra-2600, act, australia

First posted November 30, 2011 19:37:20

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Horne ruled out of Wales Test

Updated December 02, 2011 23:08:45

A tight hamstring has forced Waratahs centre Rob Horne to withdraw from Australia's team to play Sunday's (AEDT) rugby Test against Wales at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff.

Horne failed to complete Thursday's training session at the Ospreys' base in Swansea.

Coach Robbie Deans promoted Queensland Reds centre Anthony Faingaa from the bench to the starting line-up and named Melbourne Rebels half-back Nick Phipps as the new bench man.

Phipps joins Ben Tapuai and Ben Lucas as Australia's backline reinforcements.

The pair of Bens are in line to become the third and fourth Test newcomers provided by the Queensland Reds this season, following Rod Davies (Wallaby number 851) and Beau Robinson (852) who debuted during the Test against Samoa in Sydney in July.

The Wallabies will complete their preparations for the match with the captain's run at the Millennium Stadium on Friday afternoon.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, united-kingdom, australia

First posted December 02, 2011 23:08:45

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Horne in major doubt for Wallabies

Updated December 02, 2011 10:49:01

Anthony Faingaa is in line to replace Rob Horne in Australia's starting line-up for Sunday morning's (AEDT) Test against Wales in Cardiff.

Outside centre Horne pulled up with hamstring tightness at Thursday's training session outside of Swansea.

Faingaa is expected to be elevated off the bench with half-back Nick Phipps coming onto the bench.

Horne, 22, will be given until Friday morning to prove his fitness but it is unlikely the Wallabies will risk him considering his history of hamstring problems.

"Rob Horne finished training today a bit tight so there is a possibility that he might not be able to take his place," Wallabies coach Robbie Deans said.

Horne's career has been punctuated by injuries.

He was dogged by hamstring problems early on and elbow troubles have stifled his progress in recent times.

The Waratahs player had looked like he was cementing his place in the national team following some good showings at the World Cup.

He played on and scored a try with a broken cheekbone in Australia's group win over the USA.

He also put in a strong 71-minute performance, after coming on for Kurtley Beale, in Australia's 21-18 win over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, australia

First posted December 02, 2011 07:33:05

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French rugby player's father joins brawl

Updated November 30, 2011 12:44:19

The father of French international Imanol Harinordoquy brought the Top 14 Basque derby between Biarritz and Bayonne to a halt after running onto the pitch to defend his son.

Harinordoquy's father came down from the stands in the sixth minute of the clash and faced up to Bayonne flanker Jean-Jo Marmouyet after his son got involved in a punch-up behind the play.

Harinordoquy senior's admirable sense of family loyalty was brought to an abrupt end by Bayonne fly half Benjamin Boyet, who tackled him to the ground before Biarritz hooker Benoit August stepped in to restore order.

Christian Gajan, Bayonne's director of rugby, was outraged by Harinordoquy's father's behaviour.

"I find his behaviour deplorable that he came onto the pitch to defend his son by boxing with (Jean-Jo) Marmouyet at the beginning of the match," he said.

"You could have been mistaken for believing it was a youth match between two local villages, it was a scandalous episode."

Harinordoquy junior - who is known as one of the tougher customers in the sport and a veteran of three World Cups - opted not to comment.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, france, australia

First posted November 30, 2011 12:37:21

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South African Rugby

Wallaby Ioane signs to stay in Australia

Updated December 04, 2011 12:57:50

Wallabies star Digby Ioane has shunned a seven-figure Japanese offer to sign an extended three-year deal with Queensland and the Australian Rugby Union.

Rated among the most destructive wingers in world rugby, Ioane on Sunday revealed he would remain in Brisbane until the end of the 2014 season in a major boost to the Wallabies and Queensland Reds.

The 26-year-old broke the news on his Twitter account after again impressing in Australia's 24-18 Test win over Wales at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium early Sunday morning (AEST).

"4 got 2 tell u my friends! Gonna stay in australia for the next 3 years!!! God is good an we r #reds," Ioane posted.

Ioane had received a $1 million per season offer to play with Japanese club Kubota midway through this year's Super Rugby season.

He reportedly verbally agreed to take up the lucrative deal to play alongside former Wallabies team-mate Hugh McMeniman before denying it and saying he would make up his mind after the World Cup.

The re-signing saga dragged on to the end-of-season tour of Britain but Reds coach Ewen McKenzie was always quietly confident of retaining Ioane for Queensland's 2012 Super Rugby title defence.

Not only for his speed and attacking power, Ioane is a crowd magnet for the Reds after lighting up Lang Park in 2011 with his breakdancing try celebrations.

"Obviously we're quite pleased it's finally over," McKenzie said.

"That ices the cake for us.

"We've retained 25 of the 30 (contracted players) from last year which is a great position to be in after winning the title and it gives us a good capacity (for success again)."

McKenzie agreed Ioane's 2011 form deservedly made the 21-Test winger a natural choice in any world 15 team.

"I think he's had an outstanding year," he said. "It was surprising he'd only played 11 Tests before this season due to injuries.

"He's a bit of an enigma as a winger. He's got such a high work-rate, he doesn't play wing like in an orthodox way which we're pleased about.

"He touches the ball more than anyone else apart from the (halves) and he makes a positive impact with every touch."

Three-year contracts are a rarity in Australian rugby these days and the Reds were quick to push for a long-term deal for Ioane, who moved back to Ballymore from the Western Force in 2008.

"When he left the Western Force he was looking for love in a team sense and he found camaraderie and a great environment," McKenzie said.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, brisbane-4000, qld, australia

First posted December 04, 2011 12:56:31

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Rugby For Beginners - Basic Rules & Positions

Cipriani no sure thing for Rebels No 10

Updated November 29, 2011 17:06:14

Danny Cipriani may be eyeing the England number 10 jersey but he is no certainty to even play fly half for Melbourne Rebels.

The former England playmaker stated after his appearance for the Barbarians on the weekend that he was going to be the fly half for the Rebels in the 2012 Super Rugby season.

He declared he would start there, with new recruit James O'Connor at number 12, captain Stirling Mortlock at outside centre and another prized signing Kurtley Beale at full-back.

But with O'Connor completely outplaying Cipriani in his first start as Wallabies fly half as the Australians trumped the Barbarians 60-11 at Twickenham, the import has some serious competition.

Melbourne coach Damien Hill says no jerseys are locked in.

"It's great to hear Danny so enthusiastic but with all respect to him, it's not how we work here," Hill said.

"We select players based on performance, behaviours, the talent we have available; there's going to be some selection challenges ahead.

"It's going to be what's best for the team."

Hill was impressed by O'Connor's commanding performance and says he is an option at fly half.

"Definitely. He's shown himself now at 10, 12 on the wing and at full-back so he's a talented player," Hill said.

"James' work in the contact was excellent, he's ability to direct the play, his offloads, just his general go-forward was excellent."

Hill says it is unfair to compare O'Connor and Cipriani because of the latter's lack of preparation in an unfamiliar team that was soundly beaten.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, melbourne-3000

First posted November 29, 2011 16:46:34

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Higginbotham ready to knock out Rocky

Updated December 01, 2011 11:31:17

Wallabies back rower Scott Higginbotham is relishing the chance to tighten his grip on the number six jumper in Sunday morning's Test against Wales in Cardiff.

With 75-Test veteran Rocky Elsom sidelined following hamstring surgery, Higginbotham is set to make only his fourth Test start this weekend.

Elsom, 28, an inspirational servant of Australian rugby, released his hold on the position of blindside flanker with an ordinary performance in the World Cup semi-final loss to New Zealand.

Such was the manner of his showing that it raised questions about whether the former Wallabies skipper will be able to become Australia's first-choice number six again.

"It is a chance for me to step up," Higginbotham said.

"Everyone plays football to start, I will take my chances."

The 25-year-old former Australian Sevens player has enjoyed quite a year since coming off the bench for his Test debut in Australia's 59-16 win over France in Paris.

He was part of Queensland's Super Rugby title-winning side and started in Australia's 21-18 victory over Wales in the World Cup bronze medal match.

The 195cm, 110kg Higginbotham's combination of speed and athleticism for his size has proved attractive to Wallabies coach Robbie Deans.

The late bloomer was keener on surfing, soccer and basketball before rugby took hold of him at the age of 17.

However it has not all gone to script.

He hurt his back warming up for his Test debut against South Africa last year in Pretoria and his back seized up again after being named to play against the USA at the World Cup.

Higginbotham expected the Welsh to play an up-tempo style of play at the Millennium Stadium in Shane Williams' farewell.

"It seemed alright for some of us Reds players talking after the match it was quick football like we play at the Reds," he said.

He said limiting the influence of Wales skipper and openside flanker Sam Warburton was a key for the Australian back row.

"He is a massive part of their team," he said.

Fiery number eight Ben McCalman (eye irritation) and skipper James Horwill (bench) were expected to return to the Australian starting line-up.

The Wallabies were due to release their team for the final match of the year at 9:00am (8:00pm AEDT) on Thursday.

AAP

Tags: rugby-union, sport, wales, australia

First posted December 01, 2011 08:40:00

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Interview: Didier Retiere

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Live Broadcast: All Blacks v Argentina

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Interview: Robbie Deans

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Slade makes shaky start in Carter's place

Updated October 02, 2011 22:07:08

Colin Slade made a nervous start after being thrust into the spotlight as replacement for New Zealand's star fly half Dan Carter in the 79-15 win against Canada on Sunday, turning in an error-strewn performance before hobbling off injured.

With the All Blacks still reeling from news that Carter will miss the rest of the World Cup with a serious groin injury picked up at training on Saturday, Slade found himself promoted from understudy to New Zealand's main playmaker.

Slade, playing his 10th Test, received an early confidence boost when he set up New Zealand's first try in the sixth minute in Wellington, bursting through Canada's defence and floating a beautifully-weighted 20-metre pass to Zac Guildford, the winger scoring in the corner.

But things went downhill from there for the 23-year-old as he threw some sloppy passes as first receiver, one of which almost resulted in an intercept try.

Slade also had a forgettable match with the boot, missing three of seven conversion attempts and a penalty before he was moved to the wing early in the second half to make way for Piri Weepu at fly half.

While 54-Test veteran Weepu, who normally plays half-back, looked comfortable in the playmaker role, albeit against a wilting Canadian team, Slade's cameo on the wing lasted little more than 10 minutes before he hobbled off in the 64th minute.

Weepu slotted home all four of his conversion attempts, including a difficult sideline effort, as well as setting up the last of Guildford's four tries in the 77th minute and Vito's second shortly after.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has another fly half option in Aaron Cruden, who was called into the squad after Carter's injury.

Slade is seen as the more traditional fly half, with a solid kicking and defensive game, while Cruden, who has only six Test caps, possesses more attacking flair.

However, Henry indicated before the match that he may prefer a no-frills playmaker in Carter's absence, saying Slade and Cruden will need to "work within boundaries that are possible".

"If you've only been out there half a dozen times, it's not so intuitive, so you need to spend the time making sure the clarity's right, and maybe a wee bit more simple, so the menu's not too large it becomes overwhelming," Henry said.

Whether he believes Slade can offer that solidity after Sunday's display remains to be seen.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted October 02, 2011 22:04:54

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All Blacks win will seal the deal for Key

Brigid Andersen

Updated October 23, 2011 10:36:37

If John Key had any doubts about his prospects at New Zealand's election next month, an All Blacks win on Sunday should allay any fears.

Experts say a New Zealand victory in the Rugby World Cup final against France will translate into positive poll results for the prime minister.

Not that he needs it. Mr Key's National Party is already the odds on favourite to win the country's election on November 26.

Centrebet's Neil Evans says the All Blacks and the National Party are likely to romp it home.

"National are into $1.09, they're very short for John Key to win again and even out at $7 where we've got Labour parked at the moment, the punters don't want to turn up," he said.

"So I think the two hot favourites, the All Blacks and John Key's National government will do the double."

Dr Jennifer Curtin, a political scientist at the University of Auckland, says the World Cup result is likely to have an effect on the election.

"It may have a flip for the National Party who's in government, in the sense that if they are able to harness a win and attach themselves to the successful running of the cup, the hosting of it and the outcome more generally and people were feeling good about the result, then it may have a flip for them," she said.

"But if we lose, it's possible that our sense of depression as a nation might mean that there's some negative fallout for the National government."

Forty per cent of New Zealand's population follow the game and Dr Curtin says this 40 per cent are not just supporters, but are "rugby mad".

And as prime minister, Mr Key never shies away from using the All Blacks to get a bit of publicity.

"He's an excellent politician in the sense of being able to share the love and be seen with important people and the rugby players and former rugby players," she said.

"He doesn't really miss a photo opportunity in that sense and he's very good at being seen to be one of the people."

Mr Key would not be the first to benefit from a World Cup win. Nelson Mandela used the 1995 World Cup in South Africa as a way to unite the fractured nation which was emerging from the shadow of apartheid.

But it does not seem like France will get a look in when it comes to taking down the government and the All Blacks at their Eden Park fortress.

"France have done very little to make it. I think they're pretty average side who'll just try and spoil and spoil, and perhaps turn this into a real yawn-a-thon of a World Cup Final," Centrebet's Neil Evans said.

"But the class, the pressure, the quality is all with the All Blacks and really I cannot see an upset coming here at all."

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, world-politics, new-zealand

First posted October 23, 2011 10:36:37

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All Blacks batter Wallabies to reach final

Updated October 16, 2011 22:21:17

New Zealand's relentless pressure and masterly forwards overwhelmed Australia in a brutal 20-6 semi-final win at Eden Park on Sunday to put the All Blacks in sight of a first World Cup triumph in 24 years.

The All Blacks will be overwhelming favourites when they return next weekend to play in a rematch of the inaugural 1987 World Cup final against France, also at Eden Park, which New Zealand won 29-9.

The Wallabies came off second best in the physical and tactical exchanges in the intimidating atmosphere of the All Blacks' Eden Park fortress, where they have not won since 1986.

The Tri Nations champions were bloodied and beaten in every aspect by a ferocious New Zealand onslaught, that saw the hosts dominate from the opening kick-off and fluster the Wallabies into a multitude of errors.

The dynamic New Zealanders ended a tense week of concerns over the fitness of captain Richie McCaw as they proved far too good for the Australians.

"It was awesome," McCaw said.

"We realised we were going to have to front up and be on the job for 80 minutes.

"The intensity was there. Every single man out there did their bit tonight and that's what you've got to do in knock-out rugby."

The Wallabies now have to console themselves with a bronze final with Wales on Friday - a repeat of the 1987 third place play-off.

"We didn't have enough possession," Wallabies coach Robbie Deans said.

"The All Blacks are a very good defensive side.

"Most sides would have leaked one or two (tries) but they didn't."

Not only did Australia lose on the scoreboard, but it had a lengthy injury toll with prop Sekope Kepu coming off with a facial injury after 21 minutes and Dan Vickerman and Pat McCabe going to the blood bin for running repairs.

It was another shaky night for Australia's scattergun playmaker Quade Cooper, who was guilty of many poor options much to the roaring approval of the 60,000 capacity Kiwi crowd.

The Wallabies' last win in New Zealand was 10 years ago and they have never beaten a Graham Henry-coached All Blacks side now in 11 encounters in the Shaky Isles.

The win was especially sweet for Henry after he survived calls to be sacked and replaced by Kiwi Deans following the All Blacks' quarter-final defeat by France four years ago - their worst World Cup showing.

"They were fabulous, weren't they?" Henry said of his side.

"They showed huge character. From minute to minute they gave 100 (per cent), they gave everything, they were just outstanding."

Henry, asked what was behind the victory, replied: "Four years of planning, I suppose. Four years of guys being frustrated and wanting to do the job, four years of trying to get things right."

Early try

It all went horribly wrong from kick-off, Cooper sending his kick sailing over the sideline to put the Wallabies under immediate pressure as the All Blacks ripped in.

New Zealand had all the ball in the opening six minutes before Israel Dagg sliced past Anthony Fainga'a and Rocky Elsom to send Ma'a Nonu storming over for the only try of the game to a mighty roar.

Wallabies flanker David Pocock was penalised for two ruck infringements in as many minutes, with scrum half Piri Weepu kicking the All Blacks eight points ahead.

But Australia, which saw star full-back Kurtley Beale ruled out on Saturday with a hamstring injury, gradually clawed its way back and winger Digby Ioane was held up near the try-line before McCaw conceded a penalty kicked by James O'Connor.

Cooper spilled a high kick before novice fly half Aaron Cruden settled his nerves with a 22nd minute drop-goal to extend the All Blacks' lead to 11-3.

The crowd roared their approval as Cooper continued to misfire and after 28 minutes of pressure the Wallabies had missed 15 tackles compared to the home side's eight.

Cooper tried to get back on track with a calmly-taken drop goal to have the Australians trailing 11-6 after 32 minutes.

But Adam Ashley-Cooper was caught in an offside position from an All Blacks high kick, giving Weepu the chance to kick the penalty for a 14-6 half-time lead.

Australia again began the restart poorly and McCabe was penalised for not releasing, giving Weepu an easy penalty for a 17-6 lead.

Weepu sealed victory with his fourth penalty eight minutes from time for a 14-point lead.

New Zealand's Sonny Bill Williams only lasted three minutes after coming on as a replacement before he was yellow carded for a shoulder charge on Cooper.

New Zealand: 20 (M Nonu try; P Weepu 4 penalty goals, A Cruden drop goal)

Australia: 6 (J O'Connor penalty goal, Q Cooper drop goal)

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand, australia

First posted October 16, 2011 20:49:57

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England rugby boss refuses to quit

Updated November 25, 2011 11:46:22

A "shattered" Rob Andrew admits he should have given England manager Martin Johnson more support, but insists he will not be resigning after a shambolic World Cup campaign.

England's campaign was dominated by off-field scandals and lacklustre on-field performances and it fell short of its stated goal of a semi-final spot with a quarter-final defeat by France.

Ultimately, this all led to Johnson's resignation last week and saw England attack coach Brian Smith quit as well, increasing the pressure on Andrew, elite performance director at the governing Rugby Football Union (RFU).

Leaked reports into England's performance in New Zealand published in the The Times newspaper painted a damning portrait of a divided squad obsessed with financial gain.

But the leaks also showed how the England management had lost control of a squad where the drinking exploits of players, including senior figures such as Mike Tindall, caused unwanted headlines.

Andrew, who helped appoint Johnson in 2008 despite the latter's lack of any previous coaching experience, told the BBC on Thursday: "The reality of my job is that I'm not the England team manager. I'm the elite rugby director and I run a big department.

"But I absolutely accept responsibility for what is going on here.

"The players have let themselves down, the coaches have maybe not done as good a job as they should, I've not done as good a job as I should have done.

"I should have supported Martin more.

"Does it mean I'm going to resign? No, I'm not. Does it mean it's all broken? No it doesn't.

"I'm absolutely shattered by what's going both on and off the field at the moment," Andrew added.

"This is rock bottom, this is the lowest of the low."

Before the World Cup, the RFU saw chief executive John Steele forced out over a botched attempt to hire a new performance director.

Clive Woodward, England's 2003 World Cup-winning coach, was strongly linked with the still unfilled post and the ensuing furore after Steele's exit also led Martyn Thomas, who will step down as acting chief executive next month, to quit as RFU chairman.

Johnson's resignation means Andrew, who has headed the performance department since 2006, has seen three England coaches come and ago - Andy Robinson and Brian Ashton are the other two - during his time at Twickenham.

Smith, whose contract expired in December, was slated in a report based upon anonymous interviews given by England squad members to the Rugby Players' Association.

One player accused Smith of copying moves at the World Cup from rugby minnow Romania.

"When you start copying Romanian moves, you know you are in trouble," the unnamed player said.

Earlier, the RFU said there would be no verdict published on Tindall's appeal against a 25,000 pound fine for his boozy night out during the World Cup.

Tindall, 33, was fined and dropped from the England squad earlier this month after an RFU investigation into a players' night out in the New Zealand resort town of Queenstown during the World Cup.

Leaked security footage showed Tindall, recently married to Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter Zara Phillips, being kissed on the head by a woman but the point that really angered England was that the Gloucester back initially misled them about his movements on the night in question.

Several reports have suggested Stuart Lancaster, coach of the reserve team England Saxons, could succeed Johnson in a caretaker capacity.

That would give the RFU breathing space to find a new, permanent, coach with the defence of its Six Nations title just 10 weeks away.

AFP

Tags: sport, rugby-union, rugby-union-world-cup, england, united-kingdom

First posted November 25, 2011 11:46:22

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England centre jumps off ferry

Updated October 11, 2011 16:57:26

England World Cup centre Manu Tuilagi was detained by New Zealand police after jumping off a ferry as it was about to berth on the Auckland waterfront.

The 20-year-old Samoan-born player, who has been fined 3,000 pounds by the Rugby Football Union, jumped off the ferry, which was carrying other team-mates, as it arrived from Waiheke Island and was preparing to dock on Sunday evening.

A police spokeswoman said he was formally warned about the offence of disorderly behaviour, and then released to the England team management.

"I'm really sorry. It was a silly thing to do and I apologise to everybody for any inconvenience caused," Tuilagi said.

Warren Fowler, the general manager of the ferry company, said the antic was dangerous and that there could have been serious consequences.

"It could have been tragic with vessels coming in here and someone jumping off the back of a vessel when it is going to be reversing shortly," Fowler told The New Zealand Herald.

England was knocked out of the World Cup by France in the quarter-finals on Saturday, losing 19-12.

Tuilagi had already been in hot water at the tournament when he was fined $7,500 for wearing an illegal mouthguard bearing a sponsor's name.

England's campaign in New Zealand was dogged by off-field problems.

Three players were forced to apologise to a female hotel employee for harassment while Mike Tindall - married to the granddaughter of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II - admitted he had misled officials about his night with a mystery woman, later said to be an "old friend" by those close to the England centre.

Tindall initially said he was only in one bar with the woman until photo evidence emerged showing them in a second bar where they "behaved like a smooching teenage couple," according to media reports.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, england, united-kingdom, new-zealand

First posted October 10, 2011 11:43:41

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McCaw declared a certain starter

Updated October 13, 2011 13:52:48

The All Blacks say captain Richie McCaw will play in Sunday's Rugby World Cup semi-final against Australia despite the injured right foot which has been troubling him all year.

New Zealand has been in a flap over reports the inspirational flanker was not training with his team-mates, amid fears he would join injured star fly half Dan Carter on the sidelines for the crunch game in Auckland.

The appearance of specialist openside flanker Matt Todd at training on Wednesday sparked rumours all was not well with the indispensable McCaw, but assistant coach Steve Hansen dispelled fears.

"I can guess what the first question is, so I'm going to answer it for you: Richie McCaw's foot is fine," Hansen said at the start of Thursday's press conference.

"Matt Todd is training with us as you all know and have written about. Todd's part of a wider training group and trained with us in Christchurch as did other players down there.

"Matt Todd is in Auckland and it just made commonsense to have him here.

"That's not to say that Richie's foot is worse than it was, it doesn't mean that Richie's not playing on Sunday, it means that Matt Todd was in Auckland and we wanted him to use him for training as opposition.

"So, hopefully that puts that away and we talk about the game."

Jitters over the state of McCaw's health have become a national preoccupation in rugby-obsessed New Zealand this week, as home fans will the All Blacks to win the World Cup for the first time since they lifted the trophy when the country staged the inaugural 1987 edition.

McCaw had surgery for a stress fracture in his right foot in February and missed the first two months of the Super 15 season.

The problem flared again recently with the loose forward on a restricted training workload.

But Hansen said although the 101-cap openside flanker was in pain, he would play this weekend.

"Richie didn't train last week on the pitch and he probably won't train on the pitch until (Saturday's) captain's run and he'll do very little," Hansen said.

"I don't think it will (affect his game), he played pretty well last week.

"It was a tough game last week for loose forwards against Argentina."

Hansen said international players regularly played with injuries and this was no different with McCaw.

"Our loose forwards have got niggles, but I would suggest the other three sides have all had niggles, that's what tournament rugby is all about," he said.

"Richie's obviously reasonably sore in the foot, but he's still able to play.

"I just don't see him (McCaw) being ruled out, but, hypothetically, if he was it would be disappointing but we get on with it."

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted October 13, 2011 09:00:19

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All Blacks ace Carter has groin op

Updated October 14, 2011 09:44:12

All Blacks star Dan Carter has undergone surgery following his World Cup-ending groin injury, the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) said in a statement on Friday.

In an NZRU statement Carter said the surgery, which he had in Melbourne on Monday before returning to Auckland on Wednesday to repair his left adductor longus tendon had "gone well".

The fly half, whom many New Zealand fans considered central to their team's hopes of winning the World Cup, was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after suffering his injury during kicking practice on the eve of the All Blacks' final pool match against Canada.

Test rugby's all-time leading points scorer, with 1,250 from 85 matches, the 29-year-old Carter will now embark on a rehabilitation programme the NZRU said would "involve re-establishing normal walking with strengthening exercises, with a view to progressing onto running and kicking over an eight-week period".

The NZRU statement added Carter hoped to be "fully recovered" by about the 12-week mark.

New Zealand's World Cup campaign has been beset by injury problems, with Carter's stand-in, Colin Slade, also being ruled out of the tournament with a groin problem suffered during its quarter-final win over Argentina.

That has left third-choice Aaron Cruden in the pivotal fly half position for this weekend's semi-final against Australia at Eden Park.

But the good news for New Zealand fans desperate to see the team win only its second World Cup title since the country staged the inaugural 1987 edition was that captain and Richie McCaw was named in coach Graham Henry's team to play the Wallabies here on Friday, even though the inspirational flanker has been nursing a longstanding foot problem throughout the tournament.

Carter, speaking earlier this month, before his operation but after his dreams of World Cup glory were dashed following his role in New Zealand's failed campaigns of 2003 and 2007, insisted he had no history of groin trouble.

"After kicking a ball it just popped and I went down on the ground in agony," Carter, widely acclaimed as the world's best fly half, said.

"Just the pure randomness of the injury and for it to come out of the blue, my body was really good leading into the week and it was good all week and I haven't had any groin or abductor or hip problems in the past.

"So for something like this to happen is really tough. I can't put my finger on why and I'm constantly asking why did this happen and I don't have the answer."

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted October 14, 2011 09:44:12

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Breakdown beast Pocock rises to occasion

Updated October 10, 2011 11:59:09

The "jackal at the tackle" has become common parlance at the Rugby World Cup, but it has never been better personified than in the shape of Wallabies flanker David Pocock.

The 23-year-old, who moved to Australia from his native Zimbabwe as a teenager, produced a stunning display in the Wallabies' 11-9 quarter-final victory over South Africa on Sunday.

He put in 26 tackles but more importantly continued to forge his trade in forcing turnovers at the breakdown.

In the absence of Springbok 'fetcher' Heinrich Brussow, who went off injured after 20 minutes, Pocock totally dominated the breakdown to help set up a semi-final against trans-Tasman rival New Zealand next weekend.

Coach Robbie Deans labelled Pocock's performance as the best individual display of the 2011 tournament.

"Immense. David Pocock's game was remarkable," he said.

"And it was bigger than he got credit for.

"He's clearly a huge influence in any game he plays in and we'd clearer be poorer for his absence.

"The world is blessed with some very good snafflers at the moment and no doubt people will be looking forward to next week, to that end," he said of Pocock's likely duel with All Blacks captain Richie McCaw.

Pocock has amassed 37 caps in the three years since making his debut, but was back on the field on Sunday for his first full game since missing the Wallabies' shock 15-6 pool loss to Ireland.

"We were very confident and clear what we wanted to do," Pocock said.

"But they pinned us in our half for long periods of the game.

"Because we were defending for so long there were great opportunities at the breakdown.

"Losing Brussow was definitely a blow for them," Pocock admitted.

"He's a quality player and he puts a lot of pressure on the breakdown."

Deans acknowledged that New Zealand referee Bryce Lawrence's 'anything goes' approach to the breakdown had helped Pocock's game.

"I think both sides were hard done by. It was a hotly contested area so maybe it evened out, maybe it was fair," he said.

Springboks flanker Schalk Burger called Pocock a "fantastic player".

"Getting him back is a massive boost for Australia," Burger said.

"You know that if he gets the opportunity he will turn over possession.

"Any team knows that if it dominates the breakdown it will go well in the game and Pocock is one of the best openside flankers in the world."

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, australia

First posted October 10, 2011 11:59:09

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No excuses for outplayed Wallabies

Updated October 17, 2011 08:30:26

There have been darker days in Australian rugby but surely few quite as raw and painful as Sunday's World Cup semi-final loss to New Zealand.

The young and exciting Australian side were completely out-muscled, out-enthused and out-thought by their fiercest rivals - the All Blacks prevailing 20-6, with the final score line still flattering the Australians.

It was Australia's heaviest defeat in any World Cup match since the first tournament in 1987, and a brutal lesson for the confident current crop, many of who had tasted success with this year's Super Rugby and Tri Nations titles, but were left without any excuses after the limitations of their game was exposed.

"They deserved to win, we were outplayed by a better side today," Australia captain James Horwill said.

"Everyone's pretty disappointed. You can hear a pin drop in the dressing room. It's a tough pill to swallow.

"They were very good at the tackle area and they put a lot of pressure on us there and got some good turnovers and we needed to be better there and they were very good in that part of the game.

"They were very clinical in what they did."

To their credit, the Australians fought to the end but never looked like winning. Once again, they struggled in the scrum, the weakest part of their game, but were also beaten in areas they normally dominate.

Their kicking game was poor in comparison to the All Blacks. Their back three, badly missing injured full-back Kurtley Beale, spilled a handful of high balls and their celebrated backline could not find a way past the impenetrable New Zealand defence.

Right from the kick-off, which erratic Australia playmaker Quade Cooper booted into touch, the Wallabies were under pressure and it was to their credit they restricted the All Blacks to just one try in the match, scored by centre Ma'a Nonu in the sixth minute.

"They made it difficult all night for us to create any momentum," Wallabies coach Robbie Deans said.

"We felt that the game wasn't out of reach at half-time, clearly we hadn't had enough possession to be able to build pressure and play and in the second half we didn't get much as well.

"We changed our approach after half-time but we just weren't able to generate enough momentum and that inhibited our attack.

"As they became more successful our blokes became more apprehensive so we lost some fluency as well."

"It was a tough night for all the boys. No-one enjoys coming second, they came here to win and we weren't successful."

Horwill praised his team for their efforts and said they would be better for the experience.

The Wallabies overcame a shock loss to Ireland in the pool phase to beat South Africa in a nail-biting quarter-final last weekend before falling to a team that will go into the final as overwhelming favourites against France.

"It wasn't a lack of effort from the group - we were beaten fair and square by a better side," Horwill said.

"I think we learnt from things we didn't do well. That experience against Ireland, we learnt from that. The disappointment is still pretty raw but the guys never stopped giving and offering themselves up."

Deans lamented the hamstring injury that forced Wallaby full-back Kurtley Beale out of the semi-final.

"We know how capable Kurtley is, he's our player of the year and among the top five IRB (International Rugby Board) players of the year, so it would have been nice to have him, but we didn't," he said.

AFP/Reuters

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand, australia

First posted October 17, 2011 08:05:19

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All Blacks make three changes for semi

Updated October 14, 2011 19:01:32

The All Blacks have made three changes in their side and included injured skipper Richie McCaw for this weekend's World Cup semi-final against Australia at Eden Park.

New Zealand also named Aaron Cruden at fly half, Israel Dagg at full-back and Richard Kahui returns to the wing.

Cruden is the All Blacks' third fly half of the World Cup after tournament-ending groin injuries to Dan Carter and Colin Slade.

Dagg returns from injury to replace injured Mils Muliaina at full-back, while Kahui ousts Sonny Bill Williams on the left wing.

McCaw has not trained this week as he rests his injured foot to enable him to take part in Sunday's big match against the Wallabies.

"Richie hasn't trained this week and the more we keep him off his foot the more chance of him playing 80 minutes for us this weekend," coach Graham Henry said.

"He's upbeat but frustrated and we have to make pragmatic decisions with it. Richie's not pushing it so he can play this weekend."

McCaw's presence is vital for the All Blacks who are already without their match-winning fly half Carter.

"The guys are quieter than normal," Henry said. "This is the biggest game these guys have played for 10 years."

The All Blacks have lost two of their last three encounters with the Wallabies, including the Tri Nations decider in Brisbane.

But the Wallabies have not won at the All Blacks' citadel at Eden Park for 25 years.

"Australia is a big brother to us in many ways, but it's a positive relationship and it brings the best out of New Zealanders," Henry said.

"We know them and they know us well and there's a lot of rivalry."

In other changes on the bench, Andy Ellis and Stephen Donald come in and Sonny Bill Williams was named as the third back replacement in a four-three split.

New Zealand squad: Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Richard Kahui, Aaron Cruden, Piri Weepu; Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (capt), Jerome Kaino, Brad Thorn, Sam Whitelock, Owen Franks, Keven Mealamu, Tony Woodcock.

Replacements: Andrew Hore, Ben Franks, Ali Williams, Victor Vito, Andy Ellis, Stephen Donald, Sonny Bill Williams.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand, australia

First posted October 14, 2011 07:08:28

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Wallabies hold off relentless Springboks

James Maasdorp

Updated October 10, 2011 09:58:55

Australia beat defending champion South Africa 11-9 in a gripping Rugby World Cup quarter-final in Wellington on Sunday afternoon.

Under the cosh for nearly the entirety of the second half, the Wallabies saw their 8-3 half-time lead whittled down and overtaken by the boot of Morne Steyn, before a late penalty to James O'Connor regained the lead on 71 minutes.

An early try to captain James Horwill seemed as good as it would get for Australia as South Africa threw everything at the Wallabies to batter their defensive line and play for the mistakes.

Steyn duly obliged with a penalty 15 minutes into the half before slotting over a drop goal to give South Africa the lead for the first time in the match.

The Wallabies were thankful for a big referee call which went their way when Jean De Villiers burst through to break past his man before flinging it wide to Patrick Lambie who sprinted over to score.

But De Villiers' pass was ruled forward in a debatable let-off for a besieged Australian defence.

That defence kept up its superb display of soaking up relentless pressure when, after James O'Connor slotted home his penalty in a rare outing forward to lead 11-9, the forwards held off numerous Springbok attacks for the remaining 10 minutes.

Desperate for a mistake to go against South Africa, it came 10 seconds from time from a Steyn knock on, allowing Will Genia to kick for touch from the scrum to seal the win.

Horwill lauded his side's tenacity under constant onslaught.

"It was a huge effort from the boys. We started the way we wanted to but we knew South Africa are such a good side and they were going to come back," he said.

"We had some real issues there in the second half clearing our ball and they put us under a lot of pressure.

"I'm really really proud of the way boys fought and dug in. That was a huge effort and took everything. I'm just stoked.

"We knew that we had to stick in and that defence wins these big games and we had to trust that and our discipline was pretty good for most of the time.

"There were times when we let go of the ball too easily and we'll look at that and work on it for next week."

Australia will meet New Zealand in the semi-final next Sunday in Auckland after the All Blacks beat the Pumas 33-10 in the day's other knock-out encounter.

But that date was far from certain throughout the second stanza as star fly half Quade Cooper had a shocker with the boot, while the normally reliable Genia looked rattled under the attentions of the Springbok forwards.

Forced to rush his kicks, Cooper shanked his clearances a number of times to heap more pressure on his side, while also having his restart from the 22 inexplicably charged down.

South Africa dominated the match territorially while also winning 14 of the game's 21 line-outs thanks to master poacher Victor Matfield.

But it was better news for Australia at the breakdown as Pat McCabe - named in the squad after being under a fitness cloud - made a nuisance of himself to steal the ball just as the Springboks were looking dangerous.

The one time a kick did come off for Cooper, it was a terrific touch-finder deep into South African territory early in the first half which the Wallabies pounced on to score the match's only try.

Schalk Burger ran at the forwards from his try-line but was met with a fierce tackle, before McCabe combined expertly with Horwill who dived over to score.

O'Connor missed the conversion but made up for it with a successful penalty soon after.

South Africa looked to rally with a five-metre scrum but Australia's defence held strong, squeezing the ball out of the ruck on its own try-line to clear the danger.

There were worrying signs when Sekope Kepu rolled over with a shoulder injury and when Stephen Moore overthrew his line-out straight to the on-rushing Fourie du Preez.

Morne Steyn managed to get his side on the board with a late penalty before missing a late attempt from beyond 50 metres on the touchline.

The match also capped off the end of a number of Springbok careers, with a host of players set for retirement as South Africa looks to rebuild the national squad creaking over from its world title four years ago.

Australia: 11 (J Horwill try; J O Connor 2 pens)

South Africa: 9 (M Steyn 2 pens, drop goal)

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand, south-africa, australia

First posted October 09, 2011 17:48:28

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Interview: Peter de Villiers

This service may include material from Agence France-Presse (AFP), APTN, Reuters, AAP, CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced.

AEDT = Australian Eastern Daylight Savings Time which is 11 hours ahead of UTC (Greenwich Mean Time)

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All Blacks pair spotted on booze binge

Updated October 09, 2011 11:16:07

New Zealand winger Cory Jane was accused of "letting himself down" by the All Blacks' team manager after a reported "booze binge" just 72 hours before a World Cup quarter-final against Argentina.

Jane, however, remains in the team to face the Pumas at Eden Park but was told he had "better play a blinder" by New Zealand team manager Darren Shand.

New Zealand's Herald on Sunday, which carried the story under the front page headline "Cory's Booze Binge", reported Jane and injured team-mate Israel Dagg were at the Mac's Brewbar in the Auckland suburb of Takapuna on Thursday.

The two backs were, according to anonymous patrons quoted by the paper, swaying and slurring their words, with witnesses adding Jane had lit a cigarette in contravention of a law banning smoking in pubs.

Shand told the Herald on Sunday he was particularly unhappy with the pair's behaviour given the All Blacks were, as well as Dagg, also without injured outside backs Zac Guildford and Richard Kahui for the knockout clash against Argentina.

"That's what's most disappointing," Shand said. "That guys would do this in a week that we are affected by injury.

"It's not what we expect in this team, particularly not in players who are playing this week.

"This is it for us, do or die. Lose and we're out."

Shand, who said Jane and Dagg had been disciplined "according to team protocols," added New Zealand had not imposed alcohol or smoking bans on players.

"We don't have any policy on smoking or drinking, we just expect them to make good decisions," Shand explained.

"Clearly, there is enough evidence from both sides to say they have let themselves down.

"Cory had better play a blinder."

Jane and Dagg are not the first players at this World Cup to have created unwanted headlines following a night out drinking.

England's Mike Tindall, newly married to Zara Phillips, granddaughter of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II, was filmed being kissed on the head by an woman later identified as "old friend" in a bar in the South Island resort of Queenstown.

Tindall denied accusations he had taken the woman to a second bar but the centre had to back-track when photos emerged of the extended raucous night out.

England, minus Tindall, who had a leg injury, were knocked out of the World Cup after a 19-12 quarter-final defeat by France on Saturday.

AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand

First posted October 09, 2011 11:16:07

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Palu's World Cup campaign over

Updated September 29, 2011 13:42:04

Wallabies number eight Wycliff Palu is returning home from the World Cup after scans revealed a tournament-ending hamstring injury.

Palu had scans of the hamstring injury he injured in Australia's 67-5 defeat of the United States in Wellington last Friday, as did lock Dan Vickerman and full-back Kurtley Beale.

Beale will not take on Russia this weekend in an effort to be ready for a possible quarter-final the following weekend.

Coach Robbie Deans said he will not be calling for an immediate replacement for Palu from Australia, with Scott Higginbotham in line for a run in the Wallabies' final group match against Russia in Nelson on Saturday.

"It's pretty disappointing, it was good to get an opportunity and I've just got to move on from here," Palu said in Hanmer Springs on Tuesday.

"I've done this hammy (hamstring) so many times and when I first did it I had a feeling that I would probably be on a plane back home, but the scans confirmed it yesterday.

"You've got to keep moving forward, just got to keep going and I feel there's still plenty of rugby ahead of me, so I just have to aim for that."

Palu is expected to require six weeks of rehabilitation before he would be fit to be considered for selection again, which would rule him out of selection for the remainder of the tournament.

"I've just got to go back home and do what I've been doing and try to get the body right and take my time with it," he said.

Palu said he had been frustrated by hamstring injuries this season.

"It's bad luck for Wycliff. Unfortunately his previous history of injury in this area has impacted, in terms of lengthening the timelines that are required for his rehabilitation," Deans said.

While Palu will be replaced in Australia's 30-man squad, Deans said the selectors will be taking their time with that decision, and may even delay any call until after the match against Russia so they can determine the team's specific needs.

Higginbotham said he had recovered from a back injury suffered in training last week.

"It's come good and I had a little slip-up last week but I had an epidural a day afterwards and I'm feeling good now, ready to train," he said.

"One of the most disappointing things was to miss out on a starting cap (against United States), but that was the first game I've missed this year."

The Wallabies' wounded also included Pat McCabe (shoulder), Anthony Fainga'a (head) and Rob Horne (cheek) in the wake of the US win.

Fainga'a, who went down for several minutes on the full-time siren and was stretchered off in a neck brace, has been following IRB concussion protocols and "could be available for Australia's next match", the team said in a statement.

McCabe and Horne will stay with the squad although they will not take on Russia - McCabe is tipped for a potential semi-final return should the Wallabies qualify while Horne will run with the squad in training on Tuesday afternoon.

The Wallabies said star winger Digby Ioane was also on the mend and on track for a return to the action in the quarter-finals.

On Monday flanker David Pocock was declared fit to face Russia while winger James O'Connor and captain James Horwill (shoulder) should all return against the Bears.

ABC/AFP

Tags: rugby-union-world-cup, rugby-union, sport, new-zealand, australia

First posted September 27, 2011 08:32:48

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