South Africa said on Tuesday (Oct 10) it had filed a court appeal against a World Anti-Doping Agency decision that risks seeing the country's rugby team barred from flying their flag in the World Cup quarter-final against France.

Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa said the appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland, will "stave off" the effects of the WADA decision, sparing the World Cup holders a major embarrassment.&nbsp;

"This means that the flying of the South African flag at events such as the Cricket and Rugby World Cups will not be affected until CAS rules on this challenge," Kodwa told a press conference.&nbsp;

South Africa has until Friday to update its anti-doping legislation in compliance with new WADA rules but is almost certain to miss the deadline.&nbsp;

That would trigger a ban on the Springboks flying their flag and playing the national anthem at Sunday's clash against the host nation in Paris.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2023-south-africa-see-off-valiant-sri-lanka-in-record-breaking-outing-win-by-102-runs-in-delhi-643814">Also read |&nbsp;ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa see off valiant Sri Lanka in record-breaking outing, win by 102 runs in Delhi</a>

The South African team competing at the Cricket World Cup, which began in India last week, would also be affected.&nbsp;

"I believe the grounds for appeal are strong and that the sanctions are not appropriate," Kodwa said.

"The sanction as it pertains to the flying of the national flag has created unnecessary hysteria and punished athletes and players unfairly."

The appeal was filed by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (Saids), the independent body that oversees anti-doping in South Africa, he added.&nbsp;

The new WADA code came into effect in 2021, and South Africa and Bermuda are the only countries yet to update their regulations, according to the Montreal-based anti-doping organisation.

The debacle has left SA Rugby boss Mark Alexander fuming.

"We have this problem because our government failed to have new legislation promulgated," he told South African media.

"It is a disgrace. It is an embarrassment for our country. They were issued notice well in advance."

Kodwa said he presented the needed regulation changes to the cabinet last week and asked for the bill to be fast-tracked through the parliamentary system.

"I am confident that WADA will recognise these efforts as a commitment to pass the amended legislation and suspend the non-compliance declaration," he said.

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South Africa said on Tuesday (Oct 10) it had filed a court appeal against a World Anti-Doping Agency decision that risks seeing the country's rugby team barred from flying their flag in the World Cup quarter-final against France.

South Africa said on Tuesday (Oct 10) it had filed a court appeal against a World Anti-Doping Agency decision that risks seeing the country's rugby team barred from flying their flag in the World Cup quarter-final against France. Sports Minister Zizi Kodwa said the appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) in Lausanne, Switzerland, will "stave off" the effects of the WADA decision, sparing the World Cup holders a major embarrassment. "This means that the flying of the South African flag at events such as the Cricket and Rugby World Cups will not be affected until CAS rules on this challenge," Kodwa told a press conference. South Africa has until Friday to update its anti-doping legislation in compliance with new WADA rules but is almost certain to miss the deadline. That would trigger a ban on the Springboks flying their flag and playing the national anthem at Sunday's clash against the host nation in Paris. Also read | ODI World Cup 2023: South Africa see off valiant Sri Lanka in record-breaking outing, win by 102 runs in Delhi The South African team competing at the Cricket World Cup, which began in India last week, would also be affected. "I believe the grounds for appeal are strong and that the sanctions are not appropriate," Kodwa said. "The sanction as it pertains to the flying of the national flag has created unnecessary hysteria and punished athletes and players unfairly." The appeal was filed by the South African Institute for Drug-Free Sport (Saids), the independent body that oversees anti-doping in South Africa, he added. The new WADA code came into effect in 2021, and South Africa and Bermuda are the only countries yet to update their regulations, according to the Montreal-based anti-doping organisation. The debacle has left SA Rugby boss Mark Alexander fuming. "We have this problem because our government failed to have new legislation promulgated," he told South African media. "It is a disgrace. It is an embarrassment for our country. They were issued notice well in advance." Kodwa said he presented the needed regulation changes to the cabinet last week and asked for the bill to be fast-tracked through the parliamentary system. "I am confident that WADA will recognise these efforts as a commitment to pass the amended legislation and suspend the non-compliance declaration," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

South Africa files appeal to avoid rugby and cricket World Cup flag ban

In an effort to improve player safety, World Rugby intends to implement preventative smart mouthguard technology in all of its premier matches. The G-force of each head contact is continuously measured by preventive smart mouthguard technology.

Tech Enters Rugby Field: Smart mouthguard to measure head impact

Antoine Dupont's chances of playing in France's quarter-final clash against defending champions South Africa at the World Cup were given a massive boost when he was cleared to resume&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;training on Monday. The team captain underwent surgery on a broken cheekbone on Sept. 22 and after quickly going back to light training, was waiting for the green light from his surgeon to start making contact with other players.

Following the 26-year-old's visit to surgeon Frederic Lauwers in Toulouse, the French federation (FFR) said in a statement: "Antoine Dupont has obtained the authorisation to resume&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;training as early as today." The French staff had said that the surgeon's clearance was key to Dupont's possible participation in Sunday's clash against the Springboks, adding that the player would have the final say on whether he would want to be on the field.

Should he feel ready, head coach Fabien Galthie and his staff will also assess if he is to start. Maxime Lucu deputised in France's final Pool A game against Italy and the scrumhalf did a fine job with club partner and flyhalf Mathieu Jalibert as Les Bleus demolished Italy 60-7 last Friday in Lyon.

"If he gets the green light to play with contact again we will resume gradually and then we will need to see how the players react, if he's 100% fit and if he has any apprehension," France's health manager Bruno Boussagol said last week. "Finally, the coaches will decide. It is not because he is on the (training) pitch that he will play the game."

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France won all their group games, including a 27-13 victory against three-time champions New Zealand in the tournament's opening match. Dupont was rested for the following game against Uruguay but started to face Namibia, a test France won 96-0.

In the 45th minute, he left the pitch after a head-on-head collision with Namibia captain Johan Deysel and underwent surgery the same night in Toulouse. France have suffered several injuries in the build-up to the tournament and during the competition, with lock Paul Willemse and flyhalf Romain Ntamack both ruled out before the start while hooker Julien Marchand is still recovering from a thigh injury he picked up during the All Blacks game.

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Antoine Dupont's chances of playing in France's quarter-final clash against defending champions South Africa at the World Cup were given a massive boost when he was cleared to resume rugby training on Monday.

Antoine Dupont's chances of playing in France's quarter-final clash against defending champions South Africa at the World Cup were given a massive boost when he was cleared to resume rugby training on Monday. The team captain underwent surgery on a broken cheekbone on Sept. 22 and after quickly going back to light training, was waiting for the green light from his surgeon to start making contact with other players. Following the 26-year-old's visit to surgeon Frederic Lauwers in Toulouse, the French federation (FFR) said in a statement: "Antoine Dupont has obtained the authorisation to resume rugby training as early as today." The French staff had said that the surgeon's clearance was key to Dupont's possible participation in Sunday's clash against the Springboks, adding that the player would have the final say on whether he would want to be on the field. Should he feel ready, head coach Fabien Galthie and his staff will also assess if he is to start. Maxime Lucu deputised in France's final Pool A game against Italy and the scrumhalf did a fine job with club partner and flyhalf Mathieu Jalibert as Les Bleus demolished Italy 60-7 last Friday in Lyon. "If he gets the green light to play with contact again we will resume gradually and then we will need to see how the players react, if he's 100% fit and if he has any apprehension," France's health manager Bruno Boussagol said last week. "Finally, the coaches will decide. It is not because he is on the (training) pitch that he will play the game." Also read: UEFA postpones matches in Israel amid deteriorating situation France won all their group games, including a 27-13 victory against three-time champions New Zealand in the tournament's opening match. Dupont was rested for the following game against Uruguay but started to face Namibia, a test France won 96-0. In the 45th minute, he left the pitch after a head-on-head collision with Namibia captain Johan Deysel and underwent surgery the same night in Toulouse. France have suffered several injuries in the build-up to the tournament and during the competition, with lock Paul Willemse and flyhalf Romain Ntamack both ruled out before the start while hooker Julien Marchand is still recovering from a thigh injury he picked up during the All Blacks game. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: France's Antoine Dupont cleared to resume playing ahead of South Africa clash

Tyrel Lomax's return to action was cut short on Thursday as New Zealand's top tighthead prop suffered another injury in a 73-0 thrashing of Uruguay, although the three-times champions were confident he would be fit for the quarter-finals. Lomax came back for the All Blacks' win over Italy following a month-long absence after sustaining a freak knee cut which needed 30 stitches in the 35-7 warm-up defeat by South Africa.

The Italy game, and Thursday's clash with Uruguay, were meant to get him back into top shape for the quarter-finals, where the three-times champions will face one of the Pool B heavyweights. "It looks like a small strain, we won't know for another 24 hours but he was looking OK," coach Ian Foster told a press conference. It was an otherwise routine night for the All Blacks after they broke Uruguay's early resilience having had to wait 20 minutes to get onto the scoreboard. "It was a really enjoyable game, pretty free-flowing. It took us a long time to breakdown Uruguay to be honest, they defended so well," man of the match Damian McKenzie said. "But we managed to put some points on the board so I'm so proud of the lads. We've got to where we want to be, now we want to get better and move on to the quarters. I'm really excited for the week to come."

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New Zealand will face Ireland, South Africa or Scotland for a place in the last four. They are likely to finish second in Pool A and are expected to take on top-ranked Ireland. "I think we can work on the assumption we will finish second," Foster said. "The thing about the draw is that first or second we kind of know when we got the draw, we knew it's gonna be a monster game."

The top four teams in the world - Ireland, France, South Africa and New Zealand - are in the same half of the World Cup draw. "We know it's going to be a big step up coming next weekend," said Foster, after his team ran in 36 tries in the three group games following their initial loss to hosts France.

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Tyrel Lomax's return to action was cut short on Thursday as New Zealand's top tighthead prop suffered another injury in a 73-0 thrashing of Uruguay, although the three-times champions were confident he would be fit for the quarter-finals.

Tyrel Lomax's return to action was cut short on Thursday as New Zealand's top tighthead prop suffered another injury in a 73-0 thrashing of Uruguay, although the three-times champions were confident he would be fit for the quarter-finals. Lomax came back for the All Blacks' win over Italy following a month-long absence after sustaining a freak knee cut which needed 30 stitches in the 35-7 warm-up defeat by South Africa. The Italy game, and Thursday's clash with Uruguay, were meant to get him back into top shape for the quarter-finals, where the three-times champions will face one of the Pool B heavyweights. "It looks like a small strain, we won't know for another 24 hours but he was looking OK," coach Ian Foster told a press conference. It was an otherwise routine night for the All Blacks after they broke Uruguay's early resilience having had to wait 20 minutes to get onto the scoreboard. "It was a really enjoyable game, pretty free-flowing. It took us a long time to breakdown Uruguay to be honest, they defended so well," man of the match Damian McKenzie said. "But we managed to put some points on the board so I'm so proud of the lads. We've got to where we want to be, now we want to get better and move on to the quarters. I'm really excited for the week to come." Also read: Rugby World Cup: Italy number eight Cannone fancies clash against familiar France New Zealand will face Ireland, South Africa or Scotland for a place in the last four. They are likely to finish second in Pool A and are expected to take on top-ranked Ireland. "I think we can work on the assumption we will finish second," Foster said. "The thing about the draw is that first or second we kind of know when we got the draw, we knew it's gonna be a monster game." The top four teams in the world - Ireland, France, South Africa and New Zealand - are in the same half of the World Cup draw. "We know it's going to be a big step up coming next weekend," said Foster, after his team ran in 36 tries in the three group games following their initial loss to hosts France. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup 2023: All Blacks waiting on Tyrel Lomax as 'monster game' looms

Uruguay captain Andres Vilaseca said facing New Zealand in the final match of their World Cup campaign was the perfect way to round out the tournament and that Los Teros would fight for every minute of Thursday's clash. Uruguay troubled France in their opening 27-12 loss to the tournament hosts, led Italy 17-7 at halftime before going down 38-17, and tasted victory in a 36-26 win over Namibia in Lyon last week.

Centre Vilaseca said Uruguay had a plan to take the game to New Zealand, who need a bonus-point win on Thursday to be guaranteed a quarter-final spot, but the most important element of it was their attitude to the contest.

"This team is prepared to fight the All Blacks. When we can, where we can. It is our last bullet, before our World Cup is over," he told reporters on Tuesday. "I'll be happy if Uruguay fights everything and comes out empty. That's the goal."

Vilaseca said it was a dream to play New Zealand for the first time in a test and that Los Teros had something special planned for when they faced the haka before the game. "I love that they put out the best team possible," he added. "For us, it is a unique opportunity and I am happy for the respect they have shown us."

Coach Esteban Meneses made seven changes to his starting lineup for Thursday's game at OL Stadium, largely reverting to the side that impressed against France and Italy. Meneses dropped two of his try scorers from the Namibia win. Baltazar Amaya scored two tries but made way for veteran Rodrigo Silva at fullback, while Gaston Mieres returned on the right wing in place of Bautista Basso.

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Meneses also restored Tomas Inciarte to the centres alongside Vilaseca and made two changes to his back row, Manuel Diana returning at number eight and Lucas Bianchi making his first start of the tournament at openside flanker.

"Everyone who has played has done so in a great way and it was really difficult to remove them to give other players a chance," Meneses said. "But it is part of the competition that has been generated in this squad, and that is what has made Uruguay competitive in these three World Cup games."

Uruguay team:

15-Rodrigo Silva, 14-Gaston Mieres, 13-Tomas Inciarte, 12-Andres Vilaseca (captain), 11-Nicolas Freitas, 10-Felipe Etcheverry, 9-Santiago Arata, 8-Manuel Diana, 7-Lucas Bianchi, 6-Manuel Ardao, 5-Manuel Leindekar, 4-Ignacio Dotti, 3-Diego Arbelo, 2-German Kessler, 1-Mateo Sanguinetti.

Replacements: 16-Guillermo Pujadas, 17-Matias Benitez, 18-Ignacio Peculo, 19-Juan Manuel Rodriguez, 20-Santiago Civetta, 21-Agustin Ormaechea, 22-Felipe Berchesi, 23-Juan Manuel Alonso

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Uruguay captain Andres Vilaseca said facing New Zealand in the final match of their World Cup campaign was the perfect way to round out the tournament and that Los Teros would fight for every minute of Thursday's clash.

Uruguay captain Andres Vilaseca said facing New Zealand in the final match of their World Cup campaign was the perfect way to round out the tournament and that Los Teros would fight for every minute of Thursday's clash. Uruguay troubled France in their opening 27-12 loss to the tournament hosts, led Italy 17-7 at halftime before going down 38-17, and tasted victory in a 36-26 win over Namibia in Lyon last week. Centre Vilaseca said Uruguay had a plan to take the game to New Zealand, who need a bonus-point win on Thursday to be guaranteed a quarter-final spot, but the most important element of it was their attitude to the contest. "This team is prepared to fight the All Blacks. When we can, where we can. It is our last bullet, before our World Cup is over," he told reporters on Tuesday. "I'll be happy if Uruguay fights everything and comes out empty. That's the goal." Vilaseca said it was a dream to play New Zealand for the first time in a test and that Los Teros had something special planned for when they faced the haka before the game. "I love that they put out the best team possible," he added. "For us, it is a unique opportunity and I am happy for the respect they have shown us." Coach Esteban Meneses made seven changes to his starting lineup for Thursday's game at OL Stadium, largely reverting to the side that impressed against France and Italy. Meneses dropped two of his try scorers from the Namibia win. Baltazar Amaya scored two tries but made way for veteran Rodrigo Silva at fullback, while Gaston Mieres returned on the right wing in place of Bautista Basso. Also read: NFL: Seahawks safety Jamal Adams suffers concussion, return cut short Meneses also restored Tomas Inciarte to the centres alongside Vilaseca and made two changes to his back row, Manuel Diana returning at number eight and Lucas Bianchi making his first start of the tournament at openside flanker. "Everyone who has played has done so in a great way and it was really difficult to remove them to give other players a chance," Meneses said. "But it is part of the competition that has been generated in this squad, and that is what has made Uruguay competitive in these three World Cup games." Uruguay team: 15-Rodrigo Silva, 14-Gaston Mieres, 13-Tomas Inciarte, 12-Andres Vilaseca (captain), 11-Nicolas Freitas, 10-Felipe Etcheverry, 9-Santiago Arata, 8-Manuel Diana, 7-Lucas Bianchi, 6-Manuel Ardao, 5-Manuel Leindekar, 4-Ignacio Dotti, 3-Diego Arbelo, 2-German Kessler, 1-Mateo Sanguinetti. Replacements: 16-Guillermo Pujadas, 17-Matias Benitez, 18-Ignacio Peculo, 19-Juan Manuel Rodriguez, 20-Santiago Civetta, 21-Agustin Ormaechea, 22-Felipe Berchesi, 23-Juan Manuel Alonso WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Uruguay promise All Blacks a fight in final match of their Rugby World Cup campaign

Portugal coach Patrice Lagisquet said his team continued to surprise him with the standard of their play but he feared that Fijian physicality might be too much for them in their final World Cup match next weekend. Portugal gave Wales and Australia scares in their Pool C matches with what Lagisquet calls their "Total&nbsp;Rugby" style and came within a missed kick of beating Georgia only to have to settle for a draw.

"I'm still surprised by the quality of this team, which rises to every challenge and manages to rival teams like Wales and Australia," Lagisquet told reporters on Monday.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Even though we lost by heavy margins compared to the way the game went, these players are surprisingly generous and talented. I don't want it to stop. This group has unsuspected resources."

Portugal's target coming to Lagisquet's native France was to get a win and to do that in Toulouse on Sunday they will have to get past a Fiji team who have beaten Japan, England and Australia this year. The team will have the support not only of their own passionate fans but also of the Wallabies, who need Portugal to beat Fiji and not allow the Pacific islanders a bonus point to reach the quarter-finals.

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Lagisquet said he could not look to Georgia's match against Fiji, where the Georgians led 9-0 at halftime but lost 17-12, as a blueprint for his Portugal team. "We don't have the same quality as Georgia or the same DNA. We don't yet have enough experience to control our game," he said. "On the other hand, we can take inspiration from their defensive quality, because they defended high and prevented the Fijian powerhouse from expressing itself."

Portugal dominated large parts of Sunday's match against Australia in Saint Etienne but lost 34-14 after conceding four tries to Wallabies forwards and another to hulking Fijian-born winger Marika Koroibete. "My fear is a bit the same as before the Australia game," Lagisquet said of Sunday's clash. "I'm afraid that the physical dimension of the Fijians will drain us, that we'll end up cracking and that it will be difficult to hold out for 80 minutes."

Portugal coach Patrice Lagisquet said his team continued to surprise him with the standard of their play but he feared that Fijian physicality might be too much for them in their final World Cup match next weekend.

Portugal coach Patrice Lagisquet said his team continued to surprise him with the standard of their play but he feared that Fijian physicality might be too much for them in their final World Cup match next weekend. Portugal gave Wales and Australia scares in their Pool C matches with what Lagisquet calls their "Total Rugby" style and came within a missed kick of beating Georgia only to have to settle for a draw. "I'm still surprised by the quality of this team, which rises to every challenge and manages to rival teams like Wales and Australia," Lagisquet told reporters on Monday. "Even though we lost by heavy margins compared to the way the game went, these players are surprisingly generous and talented. I don't want it to stop. This group has unsuspected resources." Portugal's target coming to Lagisquet's native France was to get a win and to do that in Toulouse on Sunday they will have to get past a Fiji team who have beaten Japan, England and Australia this year. The team will have the support not only of their own passionate fans but also of the Wallabies, who need Portugal to beat Fiji and not allow the Pacific islanders a bonus point to reach the quarter-finals. Also read: Tennis: World number two Iga Swiatek on board with WTA's performance byes Lagisquet said he could not look to Georgia's match against Fiji, where the Georgians led 9-0 at halftime but lost 17-12, as a blueprint for his Portugal team. "We don't have the same quality as Georgia or the same DNA. We don't yet have enough experience to control our game," he said. "On the other hand, we can take inspiration from their defensive quality, because they defended high and prevented the Fijian powerhouse from expressing itself." Portugal dominated large parts of Sunday's match against Australia in Saint Etienne but lost 34-14 after conceding four tries to Wallabies forwards and another to hulking Fijian-born winger Marika Koroibete. "My fear is a bit the same as before the Australia game," Lagisquet said of Sunday's clash. "I'm afraid that the physical dimension of the Fijians will drain us, that we'll end up cracking and that it will be difficult to hold out for 80 minutes."

Rugby World Cup: Portugal coach fears Fijian physicality ahead of Pool C clash

South Africa wing Makazole Mapimpi has been ruled out of the remainder of the Rugby World Cup in France with a fractured eye socket, director of rugby Rassie Erasmus confirmed on Monday. Mapimpi was injured in a clash of heads with Augustine Pulu in the Springboks’ 49-18 Pool B victory over Tonga in Marseille on Sunday, which edged them closer to a quarter-final place.

The incident was reviewed by the Television Match Official, but not sanctioned with a yellow card. "Makazole is out of the World Cup," Erasmus told reporters. "We know who we want to replace him, I would love to tell you who it is but we first need to notify World Rugby.

"It is very sad, it was an accident, but he has a fractured eye socket and he is out for four to six weeks. We will miss him because he is a brilliant rugby player and a fantastic person."

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While no longer first choice in the side, Mapimpi has bags of experience having played a central role in South Africa’s 2019 World Cup victory in Japan. "If we get to the final we will fly him back to join us here. It is sad but that is the game of rugby, these collisions happen," Erasmus added.

South Africa must wait until Saturday’s game between Ireland and Scotland in Paris to learn their quarter-final fate, but are in a strong position. The only way they can be knocked out of the tournament is if Scotland beat top-ranked Ireland by 21 points or more and the latter get a bonus point for tries scored.

If Scotland win by eight points or more with no Irish bonus point then they and South Africa advance. "We would rather sit here than be Ireland, who have been number one in the world all this time and Scotland just have to beat them by eight points and they are out of the tournament," he said. "Of the three teams, we are probably the most comfortable."

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South Africa wing Makazole Mapimpi has been ruled out of the remainder of the Rugby World Cup in France with a fractured eye socket, director of rugby Rassie Erasmus confirmed on Monday.

South Africa wing Makazole Mapimpi has been ruled out of the remainder of the Rugby World Cup in France with a fractured eye socket, director of rugby Rassie Erasmus confirmed on Monday. Mapimpi was injured in a clash of heads with Augustine Pulu in the Springboks’ 49-18 Pool B victory over Tonga in Marseille on Sunday, which edged them closer to a quarter-final place. The incident was reviewed by the Television Match Official, but not sanctioned with a yellow card. "Makazole is out of the World Cup," Erasmus told reporters. "We know who we want to replace him, I would love to tell you who it is but we first need to notify World Rugby. "It is very sad, it was an accident, but he has a fractured eye socket and he is out for four to six weeks. We will miss him because he is a brilliant rugby player and a fantastic person." Also read: Golf: Europe regain Ryder Cup to extend USA's 30-year wait for glory While no longer first choice in the side, Mapimpi has bags of experience having played a central role in South Africa’s 2019 World Cup victory in Japan. "If we get to the final we will fly him back to join us here. It is sad but that is the game of rugby, these collisions happen," Erasmus added. South Africa must wait until Saturday’s game between Ireland and Scotland in Paris to learn their quarter-final fate, but are in a strong position. The only way they can be knocked out of the tournament is if Scotland beat top-ranked Ireland by 21 points or more and the latter get a bonus point for tries scored. If Scotland win by eight points or more with no Irish bonus point then they and South Africa advance. "We would rather sit here than be Ireland, who have been number one in the world all this time and Scotland just have to beat them by eight points and they are out of the tournament," he said. "Of the three teams, we are probably the most comfortable." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup 2023: South Africa wing Makazole Mapimpi ruled out with a fractured eye socket

South Africa will have a familiar leader back at the helm when they take to the pitch in Marseille against Tonga on Sunday, Handre Pollard making his World Cup return as Springbok playmaker after a 13-month absence.

After their 13-8 loss to Ireland, the Boks stand second in Pool B and they will be seeking a bonus-point victory over the Tongans that would see them qualify as the group runners-up.

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They will hope there is no repeat of the sole previous World Cup meeting between the two sides, when Jake White's South Africa had to roll out the big guns from the bench to ensure a 30-25 pool victory in 2007 -- before going on to clinch the Webb Ellis Cup.

"We’ve got certain things that we have to rectify that we couldn’t get right against Ireland," said South Africa coach Jacques Nienaber, with goalkickers Manie Libbok and Faf de Klerk both misfiring against the Irish.

"In terms of our game plan, there are definitely some things that we will try a little bit differently in this game to see if it works.

"The result is very important but we need to fix that if we do get the opportunity to go into a quarter-final or knockout rugby. If we don’t fix those things we probably won’t last long in this competition."

Pollard, back from injury and called up to the World Cup squad just last week, booted 22 points as the Springboks beat England 32-12 in the final of the World Cup four years ago.

He is one of 12 changes to the starting team that went down to Ireland.

Flanker Siya Kolisi, who will make his 50th appearance as captain, Eben Etzebeth and Jasper Wiese are retained for the must-win clash that will be crucial in determining which two teams from Pool B advance to the quarter-finals, and who they will play in the top-eight playoffs.

"My expectations for myself is just going to be to express myself and enjoy it knowing that it’s not going to be perfect," said Pollard, with just 30 minutes under his belt in his comeback from a debilitating calf injury.

Tonga coach Toutai Kefu said matches against the likes of South Africa "are the games that get me out of bed".

"You always want to test yourself against the best in the world. We’ve done that regularly so far and we’ve enjoyed the occasion."

Kefu, who won the 1999 World Cup with Australia, added: "I suppose from a results point of view, it's been disappointing so far.

"It's certainly not the way we looked at it to turn out, 60 points by Ireland (a 59-16 defeat) and then 40-odd points by Scotland (45-17)."

Kefu has made three changes to the starting lineup, Semisi Paea starting at No 8 in place of the suspended Vaea Fifita.

Anzelo Tuitavuki will make his World Cup debut on the left wing, with Fine Inisi starting on the right in the two other changes.

Former All Blacks Charles Piutau, Malakai Fekitoa and Augustine Pulu all start while former Wallaby forward Adam Coleman is named on the bench.

Tonga wrap up their World Cup campaign against Romania in Lille on October 8.

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South Africa will have a familiar leader back at the helm when they take to the pitch in Marseille against Tonga on Sunday, Handre Pollard making his World Cup return as Springbok playmaker after a 13-month absence.

South Africa will have a familiar leader back at the helm when they take to the pitch in Marseille against Tonga on Sunday, Handre Pollard making his World Cup return as Springbok playmaker after a 13-month absence. After their 13-8 loss to Ireland, the Boks stand second in Pool B and they will be seeking a bonus-point victory over the Tongans that would see them qualify as the group runners-up. Also Read: Late drama ensures Europe extend Ryder Cup lead to five They will hope there is no repeat of the sole previous World Cup meeting between the two sides, when Jake White's South Africa had to roll out the big guns from the bench to ensure a 30-25 pool victory in 2007 -- before going on to clinch the Webb Ellis Cup. "We’ve got certain things that we have to rectify that we couldn’t get right against Ireland," said South Africa coach Jacques Nienaber, with goalkickers Manie Libbok and Faf de Klerk both misfiring against the Irish. "In terms of our game plan, there are definitely some things that we will try a little bit differently in this game to see if it works. "The result is very important but we need to fix that if we do get the opportunity to go into a quarter-final or knockout rugby. If we don’t fix those things we probably won’t last long in this competition." Pollard, back from injury and called up to the World Cup squad just last week, booted 22 points as the Springboks beat England 32-12 in the final of the World Cup four years ago. He is one of 12 changes to the starting team that went down to Ireland. Flanker Siya Kolisi, who will make his 50th appearance as captain, Eben Etzebeth and Jasper Wiese are retained for the must-win clash that will be crucial in determining which two teams from Pool B advance to the quarter-finals, and who they will play in the top-eight playoffs. "My expectations for myself is just going to be to express myself and enjoy it knowing that it’s not going to be perfect," said Pollard, with just 30 minutes under his belt in his comeback from a debilitating calf injury. Tonga coach Toutai Kefu said matches against the likes of South Africa "are the games that get me out of bed". "You always want to test yourself against the best in the world. We’ve done that regularly so far and we’ve enjoyed the occasion." Kefu, who won the 1999 World Cup with Australia, added: "I suppose from a results point of view, it's been disappointing so far. "It's certainly not the way we looked at it to turn out, 60 points by Ireland (a 59-16 defeat) and then 40-odd points by Scotland (45-17)." Kefu has made three changes to the starting lineup, Semisi Paea starting at No 8 in place of the suspended Vaea Fifita. Anzelo Tuitavuki will make his World Cup debut on the left wing, with Fine Inisi starting on the right in the two other changes. Former All Blacks Charles Piutau, Malakai Fekitoa and Augustine Pulu all start while former Wallaby forward Adam Coleman is named on the bench. Tonga wrap up their World Cup campaign against Romania in Lille on October 8. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Handre Pollard back after 13-month absence, to lead Springboks vs Tonga in quarters

Fullback Baltazar Amaya scored two tries as Uruguay overturned a halftime deficit to defeat an ill-disciplined Namibia 36-26 for a bonus-point victory in Lyon on Wednesday (September 27) and send the African side home from another&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;World Cup without a win.

Namibia led 20-12 at the break after scoring tries through wingers Gerswin Mouton and JC Greyling in the opening 11 minutes, but having played four games in 19 days, the most punishing schedule of any team in the tournament, they could not sustain the challenge.

Uruguay looked lively throughout the Pool A clash and scored tries through hooker German Kessler, scrumhalf Santiago Arata and winger Bautista Basso as they claimed a fourth World Cup victory in their history with a game against New Zealand to come on Oct. 5.

Second-half yellow cards for prop Johan Coetzee and captain Tjiuee Uanivi, and a red for replacement front row Desiderius Sethie, sealed Namibia’s fate as their record World Cup losing streak stretched to 26 matches.

"We are going to celebrate this victory. Uruguay has only had three wins in the World Cup, the fourth win was really important. Namibia was our last objective," captain Andres Vilaseca told a press conference. "Now we are going to enjoy the week and then play the best team in the world (New Zealand on Oct. 5). We don't know if we will have a chance to play in the World Cup again."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/efl-cup-man-city-crash-out-at-newcastle-chelsea-bounce-back-arsenal-liverpool-win-640445">EFL Cup: Man City crash out at Newcastle, Chelsea bounce back; Arsenal, Liverpool win</a>

Uruguay were 20-12 behind at the break but Namibia were heavily penalised in the second half, picking up a yellow and red card and running out of steam as they suffered their 26th World Cup defeat going back to their debut in 1999.

"We managed to keep our tempers," Vilaseca added. "A few years ago, I think it would have been more difficult for us. We were hungry for a win and were are delighted that we have been successful."

Uruguay coach Esteban Meneses said his team had prepared to make history. "We were unsuccessful against Italy but this team never lost hope," he added. "We knew it would be difficult, we knew they would give everything but we managed to make the difference."

Vilaseca believes his team's success is also due to their participation in the Super&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;Americas, a professional club competition won by Uruguay's Penarol in 2022 and 2023,

"The Super&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;competition helped a lot.&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;in South America changed a lot from 2020," said Vilaseca. "We now have a lot of professional players, we have a first- class stadium. It certainly helped us to play here at the level we have. There's no doubt about it, that is the solution to closing the gap for the tier two nations."

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Fullback Baltazar Amaya scored two tries as Uruguay overturned a halftime deficit to defeat an ill-disciplined Namibia 36-26 for a bonus-point victory in Lyon on Wednesday (September 27) and send the African side home from another Rugby World Cup without a win.

Fullback Baltazar Amaya scored two tries as Uruguay overturned a halftime deficit to defeat an ill-disciplined Namibia 36-26 for a bonus-point victory in Lyon on Wednesday (September 27) and send the African side home from another Rugby World Cup without a win. Namibia led 20-12 at the break after scoring tries through wingers Gerswin Mouton and JC Greyling in the opening 11 minutes, but having played four games in 19 days, the most punishing schedule of any team in the tournament, they could not sustain the challenge. Uruguay looked lively throughout the Pool A clash and scored tries through hooker German Kessler, scrumhalf Santiago Arata and winger Bautista Basso as they claimed a fourth World Cup victory in their history with a game against New Zealand to come on Oct. 5. Second-half yellow cards for prop Johan Coetzee and captain Tjiuee Uanivi, and a red for replacement front row Desiderius Sethie, sealed Namibia’s fate as their record World Cup losing streak stretched to 26 matches. "We are going to celebrate this victory. Uruguay has only had three wins in the World Cup, the fourth win was really important. Namibia was our last objective," captain Andres Vilaseca told a press conference. "Now we are going to enjoy the week and then play the best team in the world (New Zealand on Oct. 5). We don't know if we will have a chance to play in the World Cup again." Also read: EFL Cup: Man City crash out at Newcastle, Chelsea bounce back; Arsenal, Liverpool win Uruguay were 20-12 behind at the break but Namibia were heavily penalised in the second half, picking up a yellow and red card and running out of steam as they suffered their 26th World Cup defeat going back to their debut in 1999. "We managed to keep our tempers," Vilaseca added. "A few years ago, I think it would have been more difficult for us. We were hungry for a win and were are delighted that we have been successful." Uruguay coach Esteban Meneses said his team had prepared to make history. "We were unsuccessful against Italy but this team never lost hope," he added. "We knew it would be difficult, we knew they would give everything but we managed to make the difference." Vilaseca believes his team's success is also due to their participation in the Super Rugby Americas, a professional club competition won by Uruguay's Penarol in 2022 and 2023, "The Super Rugby competition helped a lot. Rugby in South America changed a lot from 2020," said Vilaseca. "We now have a lot of professional players, we have a first- class stadium. It certainly helped us to play here at the level we have. There's no doubt about it, that is the solution to closing the gap for the tier two nations." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Uruguay stage second-half rally to beat Namibia 36-26

Italy coach Kieran Crowley said his fearless young side will not be fazed by the country's poor record against New Zealand when they take on the All Blacks in a key World Cup Pool A match on Friday. The Italians have never beaten the All Blacks in 15 attempts, and have often been on the wrong end of big scorelines, but New Zealander Crowley said that would mean nothing at OL Stadium.

"This team has never played New Zealand and the New Zealand team they'll name today has never played Italy," he told reporters on Wednesday. "We are under no illusions as to what is coming. They are going to come at us, and they are going to be aggressive and they are going to try to intimidate us. They'll try to bully us. We have to embrace that challenge. "This group of 33 players have really matured over the last 18 months. We've got a lot more confidence in our ability, they back themselves, they have some courage. We have no fear."

Crowley made three changes to his team with Dino Lamb, Luca Morisi and Stephen Varney returning to a matchday squad similar to that which beat Namibia 52-8.

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Paolo Garbisi returns at flyhalf, Tommaso Allan to fullback and Ange Capuozzo reverting to the wing to complete an exciting backline. Lock Lamb, who scored a try against Namibia, slots back in for Niccolo Cannone who drops to the bench after the win over Uruguay, while scrumhalf Varney returns in place of Alessandro Garbisi and Morisi is back at centre.

"We've got to show some courage, we've got to play. We are not going out there to try to keep the score down. We are going out there to try to win the game," Crowley added. "But we are not going to be stupid about how we play. We've looked at the way we think we can put pressure on New Zealand and we will attempt to do that in different places. We will play though."

Italy are currently in second place in Pool A, with 10 points, three points behind France and five ahead of the All Blacks. A surprise win over New Zealand would see Italy reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time.

Italy team: 15-Tommaso Allan, 14-Ange Capuozzo, 13-Juan Ignacio Brex, 12-Luca Morisi, 11-Montanna Ioane, 10-Paolo Garbisi, 9-Stephen Varney, 8-Lorenzo Cannone, 7-Michele Lamaro (captain), 6-Sebastian Negri, 5-Federico Ruzza, 4-Dino Lamb, 3-Marco Riccioni , 2-Giacomo Nicotera, 1-Danilo Fischetti

Replacements: 16-Hame Faiva, 17-Ivan Nemer, 18-Simone Ferrari, 19-Niccolo Cannone, 20-Manuel Zuliani, 21-Toa Halafihi, 22-Martin Page-Relo, 23-Paolo Odogwu.

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Italy coach Kieran Crowley said his fearless young side will not be fazed by the country's poor record against New Zealand when they take on the All Blacks in a key World Cup Pool A match on Friday.

Italy coach Kieran Crowley said his fearless young side will not be fazed by the country's poor record against New Zealand when they take on the All Blacks in a key World Cup Pool A match on Friday. The Italians have never beaten the All Blacks in 15 attempts, and have often been on the wrong end of big scorelines, but New Zealander Crowley said that would mean nothing at OL Stadium. "This team has never played New Zealand and the New Zealand team they'll name today has never played Italy," he told reporters on Wednesday. "We are under no illusions as to what is coming. They are going to come at us, and they are going to be aggressive and they are going to try to intimidate us. They'll try to bully us. We have to embrace that challenge. "This group of 33 players have really matured over the last 18 months. We've got a lot more confidence in our ability, they back themselves, they have some courage. We have no fear." Crowley made three changes to his team with Dino Lamb, Luca Morisi and Stephen Varney returning to a matchday squad similar to that which beat Namibia 52-8. Also read: China Open 2023: Carlos Alcaraz relishes 'beautiful battle' for number one spot Paolo Garbisi returns at flyhalf, Tommaso Allan to fullback and Ange Capuozzo reverting to the wing to complete an exciting backline. Lock Lamb, who scored a try against Namibia, slots back in for Niccolo Cannone who drops to the bench after the win over Uruguay, while scrumhalf Varney returns in place of Alessandro Garbisi and Morisi is back at centre. "We've got to show some courage, we've got to play. We are not going out there to try to keep the score down. We are going out there to try to win the game," Crowley added. "But we are not going to be stupid about how we play. We've looked at the way we think we can put pressure on New Zealand and we will attempt to do that in different places. We will play though." Italy are currently in second place in Pool A, with 10 points, three points behind France and five ahead of the All Blacks. A surprise win over New Zealand would see Italy reach the knockout stages of the World Cup for the first time. Italy team: 15-Tommaso Allan, 14-Ange Capuozzo, 13-Juan Ignacio Brex, 12-Luca Morisi, 11-Montanna Ioane, 10-Paolo Garbisi, 9-Stephen Varney, 8-Lorenzo Cannone, 7-Michele Lamaro (captain), 6-Sebastian Negri, 5-Federico Ruzza, 4-Dino Lamb, 3-Marco Riccioni , 2-Giacomo Nicotera, 1-Danilo Fischetti Replacements: 16-Hame Faiva, 17-Ivan Nemer, 18-Simone Ferrari, 19-Niccolo Cannone, 20-Manuel Zuliani, 21-Toa Halafihi, 22-Martin Page-Relo, 23-Paolo Odogwu. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Fearless Italy prepared for All Blacks to ‘bully’ them

Wales are hoping to have Dan Biggar back in action in the knockout rounds of the World Cup despite the flyhalf suffering a pectoral injury in Sunday's win over Australia. Biggar was forced off the pitch in the 12th minute of the 40-6 win at OL Stadium which resulted in Wales becoming the first team to reach the quarter-finals, which start on Oct. 14. "He should be a couple of weeks, no more than that," forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys told reporters on Monday. "He's feeling a lot better this morning."

Wales fans will take some solace from the fact that backup flyhalf Gareth Anscombe was Man of the Match against Australia, making one try as well as kicking six penalties, a conversion and a drop goal. "He's a huge professional. So well prepared," Humphreys added. "We've got a couple of leaders in the group, Bigs and Gareth are two of those people. They drive how we want to play, they drive training standards. He was excellent."

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Humphreys said the players would not quickly forget the passionate support they received from the massed ranks of their red-shirted compatriots in Lyon. "Definitely a memory to cherish," he said. "You can feel it as players when you see the middle of cities just full of red, people singing the national anthem. It's awesome."

Wales still have one more Pool C match in Nantes on Oct. 7 against Georgia, who stunned Wales 13-12 in Cardiff last November. "There are no wrongs to right. They deserved it, they were excellent on the day," said Humphreys. "This is a totally (new) thing here. This is not about revenge or anything like that, it's about making sure we're at our best to win the game and top our group. That's it."

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Wales are hoping to have Dan Biggar back in action in the knockout rounds of the World Cup despite the flyhalf suffering a pectoral injury in Sunday's win over Australia.

Wales are hoping to have Dan Biggar back in action in the knockout rounds of the World Cup despite the flyhalf suffering a pectoral injury in Sunday's win over Australia. Biggar was forced off the pitch in the 12th minute of the 40-6 win at OL Stadium which resulted in Wales becoming the first team to reach the quarter-finals, which start on Oct. 14. "He should be a couple of weeks, no more than that," forwards coach Jonathan Humphreys told reporters on Monday. "He's feeling a lot better this morning." Wales fans will take some solace from the fact that backup flyhalf Gareth Anscombe was Man of the Match against Australia, making one try as well as kicking six penalties, a conversion and a drop goal. "He's a huge professional. So well prepared," Humphreys added. "We've got a couple of leaders in the group, Bigs and Gareth are two of those people. They drive how we want to play, they drive training standards. He was excellent." Also read: Week 3: Miami Dolphins destroy Denver Broncos 70-20 in record outing; Chiefs dominate Bears Humphreys said the players would not quickly forget the passionate support they received from the massed ranks of their red-shirted compatriots in Lyon. "Definitely a memory to cherish," he said. "You can feel it as players when you see the middle of cities just full of red, people singing the national anthem. It's awesome." Wales still have one more Pool C match in Nantes on Oct. 7 against Georgia, who stunned Wales 13-12 in Cardiff last November. "There are no wrongs to right. They deserved it, they were excellent on the day," said Humphreys. "This is a totally (new) thing here. This is not about revenge or anything like that, it's about making sure we're at our best to win the game and top our group. That's it." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Wales hope to have Dan Biggar back for quarter-finals

France dazzled as they ran in 14 tries for their biggest ever victory with a 96-0 hammering of Namibia on Thursday but it may have come at a cost to their World Cup campaign after captain Antoine Dupont was forced off early in the second half.

Dupont left the stadium for a medical assessment after a reckless tackle from Namibia skipper Johan Deysel resulted in a suspected fractured jaw, coach Fabien Galthie said. France now anxiously wait to confirm the extent of the damage to Dupont … and their World Cup chances.

"Currently he's in hospital being tested, there is the suspicion of a fracture to his jaw. I cannot tell you more than that," Galthie said. "We are extremely concerned." France have 13 points from their three wins in Pool A but are not yet assured of a quarter-final place and will have to beat Italy in their final match in Lyon on Oct. 6.

The match in Marseille was a one-sided contest as expected. Namibia were woefully outgunned and came up against a home side willing to run the ball from all parts and in a party mood. That was set by a raucous 63,486 home crowd at the Stade de Marseille, who were relishing the novelty of seeing the World Cup hosts in action as France take their pool games around the country, on this occasion to the south coast.

Damian Penaud (three), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (two), Jonathan Danty (two), Charles Ollivon (two), Thibaud Flament, Dupont, Baptiste Couilloud and Melvyn Jaminet all crossed the line for the home side to go with a penalty try. The scoreline beat their previous biggest victory in tests, an 87-10 hammering of Namibia at the 2007 World Cup, and is France’s 17th win in a row on home soil, which equals their longest unbeaten run in front of their own fans set between 2001 and 2004.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-owen-farrell-to-captain-england-against-chile-upon-return-from-ban-638349">Rugby World Cup: Owen Farrell to captain England against Chile upon return from ban</a>

Thomas Ramos broke the French record for conversions in a single test with 12, while the 14 tries is also a team record on a night when new milestones were set. "A tough night at the office and in a way a bit humiliating," Namibia coach Allister Coetzee said. "A few youngsters needed the experience but I could see in the first 20 minute the boys were a bit flustered. "They did things out of character and were not sticking to the plan and that's just pressure."

It took them six minutes to get on the scoreboard as wing Penaud crossed for the first of his three on the night, and that opened the floodgates as France crossed eight times in the first half alone. Dupont was running the show from scrumhalf and at his mercurial best, with a beautiful kick assist for wing Bielle-Biarrey to score as France led 54-0 at halftime.

Namibia thought they had the first score of the second half when Divan Rossouw ran in unopposed after an intercept, but it was disallowed after Deysel had clattered headfirst into the cheekbone of Dupont and was given a yellow card, quickly upgraded to a red on bunker review. It took the gloss off a near perfect night for the French, who showed all their skill, flair and swagger, but might have lost their chief creator as they seek a first World Cup title.

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France dazzled as they ran in 14 tries for their biggest ever victory with a 96-0 hammering of Namibia on Thursday but it may have come at a cost to their World Cup campaign after captain Antoine Dupont was forced off early in the second half.

France dazzled as they ran in 14 tries for their biggest ever victory with a 96-0 hammering of Namibia on Thursday but it may have come at a cost to their World Cup campaign after captain Antoine Dupont was forced off early in the second half. Dupont left the stadium for a medical assessment after a reckless tackle from Namibia skipper Johan Deysel resulted in a suspected fractured jaw, coach Fabien Galthie said. France now anxiously wait to confirm the extent of the damage to Dupont … and their World Cup chances. "Currently he's in hospital being tested, there is the suspicion of a fracture to his jaw. I cannot tell you more than that," Galthie said. "We are extremely concerned." France have 13 points from their three wins in Pool A but are not yet assured of a quarter-final place and will have to beat Italy in their final match in Lyon on Oct. 6. The match in Marseille was a one-sided contest as expected. Namibia were woefully outgunned and came up against a home side willing to run the ball from all parts and in a party mood. That was set by a raucous 63,486 home crowd at the Stade de Marseille, who were relishing the novelty of seeing the World Cup hosts in action as France take their pool games around the country, on this occasion to the south coast. Damian Penaud (three), Louis Bielle-Biarrey (two), Jonathan Danty (two), Charles Ollivon (two), Thibaud Flament, Dupont, Baptiste Couilloud and Melvyn Jaminet all crossed the line for the home side to go with a penalty try. The scoreline beat their previous biggest victory in tests, an 87-10 hammering of Namibia at the 2007 World Cup, and is France’s 17th win in a row on home soil, which equals their longest unbeaten run in front of their own fans set between 2001 and 2004. Also read: Rugby World Cup: Owen Farrell to captain England against Chile upon return from ban Thomas Ramos broke the French record for conversions in a single test with 12, while the 14 tries is also a team record on a night when new milestones were set. "A tough night at the office and in a way a bit humiliating," Namibia coach Allister Coetzee said. "A few youngsters needed the experience but I could see in the first 20 minute the boys were a bit flustered. "They did things out of character and were not sticking to the plan and that's just pressure." It took them six minutes to get on the scoreboard as wing Penaud crossed for the first of his three on the night, and that opened the floodgates as France crossed eight times in the first half alone. Dupont was running the show from scrumhalf and at his mercurial best, with a beautiful kick assist for wing Bielle-Biarrey to score as France led 54-0 at halftime. Namibia thought they had the first score of the second half when Divan Rossouw ran in unopposed after an intercept, but it was disallowed after Deysel had clattered headfirst into the cheekbone of Dupont and was given a yellow card, quickly upgraded to a red on bunker review. It took the gloss off a near perfect night for the French, who showed all their skill, flair and swagger, but might have lost their chief creator as they seek a first World Cup title. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: France humiliate Namibia 96-0 but worry over captain Antoine Dupont injury

Fly-half Owen Farrell will captain England against Chile on his return from a ban for this weekend's Rugby World Cup pool game, the Rugby Football Union announced on Thursday.

Farrell, 31, who has been banned since last month's warm-up victory over Wales, is one of 12 changes head coach Steve Borthwick has made for Saturday's game in Lille as England seek a third Pool D win in a row.

Saracens playmaker Farrell replaces the in-form George Ford for unbeaten England with Marcus Smith starting at full-back.

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"One of the many great things about the Rugby World Cup is that the tournament provides an excellent opportunity to play against teams that we rarely have a chance to see," Borthwick said in a statement.

"It is for that reason that we are particularly looking forward to testing ourselves against Chile on Saturday.

"Having watched our next opponent closely, we know that we will have to prepare and play well against a committed Chile team.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"As we head to the next round, it is only right that I once again pay tribute to our excellent supporters who I know will be right behind us in Lille this weekend," the former England skipper added.

It will be the first time in his career that Harlequins' Smith, 24, has started at full-back for either club or country.

Elliot Daly moves to centre from the No. 15 shirt, Lewis Ludlam is now at No. 8 and tight-head prop Kyle Sinckler are the three players to keep their spot.

Ford is named on the bench along with four fellow starters -- prop Joe Marler, lock Ollie Chessum, back-rower Ben Earl and centre Joe Marchant -- from last Sunday's victory over Japan.

England end their group campaign by facing Samoa in Lille on October 7.

England (15-1)

Marcus Smith; Henry Arundell, Elliot Daly, Ollie Lawrence, Max Malins; Owen Farrell (capt), Danny Care; Billy Vunipola, Jack Willis, Lewis Ludlam; George Martin, David Ribbans; Kyle Sinckler, Theo Dan, Bevan Rodd

Replacements: Jack Walker, Joe Marler, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Ben Earl, Ben Youngs, George Ford, Joe Marchant

Head coach: Steve Borthwick (ENG)

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Fly-half Owen Farrell will captain England against Chile on his return from a ban for this weekend's Rugby World Cup pool game, the Rugby Football Union announced on Thursday.

Fly-half Owen Farrell will captain England against Chile on his return from a ban for this weekend's Rugby World Cup pool game, the Rugby Football Union announced on Thursday. Farrell, 31, who has been banned since last month's warm-up victory over Wales, is one of 12 changes head coach Steve Borthwick has made for Saturday's game in Lille as England seek a third Pool D win in a row. Saracens playmaker Farrell replaces the in-form George Ford for unbeaten England with Marcus Smith starting at full-back. Also Read: Rugby World Cup: Captain Michele Lamaro lauds Italy's second-half comeback against Uruguay "One of the many great things about the Rugby World Cup is that the tournament provides an excellent opportunity to play against teams that we rarely have a chance to see," Borthwick said in a statement. "It is for that reason that we are particularly looking forward to testing ourselves against Chile on Saturday. "Having watched our next opponent closely, we know that we will have to prepare and play well against a committed Chile team. "As we head to the next round, it is only right that I once again pay tribute to our excellent supporters who I know will be right behind us in Lille this weekend," the former England skipper added. It will be the first time in his career that Harlequins' Smith, 24, has started at full-back for either club or country. Elliot Daly moves to centre from the No. 15 shirt, Lewis Ludlam is now at No. 8 and tight-head prop Kyle Sinckler are the three players to keep their spot. Ford is named on the bench along with four fellow starters -- prop Joe Marler, lock Ollie Chessum, back-rower Ben Earl and centre Joe Marchant -- from last Sunday's victory over Japan. England end their group campaign by facing Samoa in Lille on October 7. England (15-1) Marcus Smith; Henry Arundell, Elliot Daly, Ollie Lawrence, Max Malins; Owen Farrell (capt), Danny Care; Billy Vunipola, Jack Willis, Lewis Ludlam; George Martin, David Ribbans; Kyle Sinckler, Theo Dan, Bevan Rodd Replacements: Jack Walker, Joe Marler, Will Stuart, Ollie Chessum, Ben Earl, Ben Youngs, George Ford, Joe Marchant Head coach: Steve Borthwick (ENG) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Owen Farrell to captain England against Chile upon return from ban

South Africa know there is a risk to their 7-1 split between forwards a backs on the bench for the crunch Pool B clash with Ireland at the World Cup on Saturday, but versatility within the team makes it a calculated one, according to wing Cheslin Kolbe. The Springboks have raised eye-brows by selecting seven forwards among their replacements to give them an 80-minute game with physicality, breakdown pressure and ruck speed. It is the same tactic used successfully in their record 35-7 victory over New Zealand in a warm-up game last month, and 2019 World Cup winner Kolbe is confident they can cover for any injuries in the backline.

"There is risk added, but we are quite fortunate to have players that can play in various positions and do as well as the player that’s been selected to start there," Kolbe told reporters on Wednesday. "We respect the decision of the coaches and as players just go out, whoever gets selected, to prepare as well as we can throughout the week. "I’m sure there’s going to be a lot of (talk) about it, but that’s things we as players can’t control. We will make sure we don’t get distracted by what’s said."

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Flyhalf Manie Libbok is looking forward to his battle with Ireland counterpart Johnny Sexton. "Johnny is a great player and he’s (achieved) amazing things for Ireland over the years," Libbok said. "But I’m just focusing on myself and my game and preparing to the best of my ability. I’m just looking forward to the challenge."

Libbok will be under some pressure to perform with flyhalf Handre Pollard having been drafted into the squad as an injury replacement for Malcolm Marx. Libbok has known issues with kicking off the tee that saw him land two from five in the opening 18-3 win over Scotland. "My whole game is going to be important, every part of it," he said. "If it is kicking for poles, if it is kicking out of hand, if it is my attacking with ball in hand. Every bit of it is going to be important. "I’m just working hard on my basic skills. Kicking for poles... I’ve put a lot of work on it to get it right."

South Africa know there is a risk to their 7-1 split between forwards a backs on the bench for the crunch Pool B clash with Ireland at the World Cup on Saturday, but versatility within the team makes it a calculated one, according to wing Cheslin Kolbe.

South Africa know there is a risk to their 7-1 split between forwards a backs on the bench for the crunch Pool B clash with Ireland at the World Cup on Saturday, but versatility within the team makes it a calculated one, according to wing Cheslin Kolbe. The Springboks have raised eye-brows by selecting seven forwards among their replacements to give them an 80-minute game with physicality, breakdown pressure and ruck speed. It is the same tactic used successfully in their record 35-7 victory over New Zealand in a warm-up game last month, and 2019 World Cup winner Kolbe is confident they can cover for any injuries in the backline. "There is risk added, but we are quite fortunate to have players that can play in various positions and do as well as the player that’s been selected to start there," Kolbe told reporters on Wednesday. "We respect the decision of the coaches and as players just go out, whoever gets selected, to prepare as well as we can throughout the week. "I’m sure there’s going to be a lot of (talk) about it, but that’s things we as players can’t control. We will make sure we don’t get distracted by what’s said." Also read: Baseball: Los Angeles star Shohei Ohtani undergoes elbow surgery, tipped for 'full recovery' Flyhalf Manie Libbok is looking forward to his battle with Ireland counterpart Johnny Sexton. "Johnny is a great player and he’s (achieved) amazing things for Ireland over the years," Libbok said. "But I’m just focusing on myself and my game and preparing to the best of my ability. I’m just looking forward to the challenge." Libbok will be under some pressure to perform with flyhalf Handre Pollard having been drafted into the squad as an injury replacement for Malcolm Marx. Libbok has known issues with kicking off the tee that saw him land two from five in the opening 18-3 win over Scotland. "My whole game is going to be important, every part of it," he said. "If it is kicking for poles, if it is kicking out of hand, if it is my attacking with ball in hand. Every bit of it is going to be important. "I’m just working hard on my basic skills. Kicking for poles... I’ve put a lot of work on it to get it right."

Rugby World Cup: Springboks happy to take calculated risk with 7-1 split

Captain Will&nbsp;Skelton&nbsp;has sustained a calf injury ahead of Australia's second World Cup match against Fiji but remains available for the Pool C clash, the Wallabies said on Friday after announcing their team. The lock will have scans later on Friday on the injury, which was sustained in training on Thursday, a team spokesperson said.

"At the moment he's still in the team," coach Eddie Jones told reporters at the team hotel. Evergreen Wallabies prop James Slipper has recovered from a foot injury and will start the match at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, becoming the third Australian to play at four World Cups. The versatile 34-year-old, who matches the feat of George Gregan and Adam Ashley-Cooper, will play his 132nd test at tighthead in place of Taniela Tupou, who was ruled out by a minor hamstring strain.

Having beaten Georgia 35-5 in their opener last weekend to snap a five-match losing streak, Australia could all but secure a place in the quarter-finals with a victory. "Fiji is the most important match of our Rugby World Cup campaign," Jones said. "It's another big opportunity for our young side to keep getting better and we'll be ready on Sunday."

Jones was also forced to change his starting scrumhalf with vice captain Tate McDermott subject to concussion protocols after sustaining a head knock against Georgia. The experienced Nic White will instead partner flyhalf Carter Gordon at halfback with rookie Issak Fines-Leleiwasa set to win his second test cap from the bench.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-organisers-apologise-to-fans-working-on-new-versions-of-national-anthems-635628">Rugby World Cup organisers apologise to fans, working on new versions of national anthems</a>

Fines-Leleiwasa is one of six players with Fijian heritage in the matchday 23 along with number eight Rob Valetini and backs Samu Kerevi, Marika Koroibete, Mark Nawaqanitawase and Suliasi Vunivalu. Lock Nick Frost returns to the starting line-up in the second row after missing the last two tests because of a cut to his ear.

Hooker Jordan Uelese has also recovered from injury and will back up starting rake David Porecki from the bench. Ben Donaldson, man of the match against Georgia after being brought into the side primarily for his place-kicking, retains the fullback spot ahead of Andrew Kellaway.

Team: 15-Ben Donaldson, 14-Mark Nawaqanitawase, 13-Jordan Petaia, 12-Samu Kerevi, 11-Marika Koroibete, 10-Carter Gordon, 9-Nic White, 8-Rob Valetini, 7-Fraser McReight, 6-Tom Hooper, 5-Will&nbsp;Skelton, 4-Nick Frost, 3-James Slipper, 2-David Porecki, 1-Angus Bell.

Replacements: 16-Jordan Uelese, 17-Blake Schoupp, 18-Zane Nonggorr, 19-Richie Arnold, 20-Rob Leota, 21-Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, 22-Lalakai Foketi, 23-Suliasi Vunivalu

Captain Will Skelton has sustained a calf injury ahead of Australia's second World Cup match against Fiji but remains available for the Pool C clash, the Wallabies said on Friday after announcing their team.

Captain Will Skelton has sustained a calf injury ahead of Australia's second World Cup match against Fiji but remains available for the Pool C clash, the Wallabies said on Friday after announcing their team. The lock will have scans later on Friday on the injury, which was sustained in training on Thursday, a team spokesperson said. "At the moment he's still in the team," coach Eddie Jones told reporters at the team hotel. Evergreen Wallabies prop James Slipper has recovered from a foot injury and will start the match at Stade Geoffroy-Guichard, becoming the third Australian to play at four World Cups. The versatile 34-year-old, who matches the feat of George Gregan and Adam Ashley-Cooper, will play his 132nd test at tighthead in place of Taniela Tupou, who was ruled out by a minor hamstring strain. Having beaten Georgia 35-5 in their opener last weekend to snap a five-match losing streak, Australia could all but secure a place in the quarter-finals with a victory. "Fiji is the most important match of our Rugby World Cup campaign," Jones said. "It's another big opportunity for our young side to keep getting better and we'll be ready on Sunday." Jones was also forced to change his starting scrumhalf with vice captain Tate McDermott subject to concussion protocols after sustaining a head knock against Georgia. The experienced Nic White will instead partner flyhalf Carter Gordon at halfback with rookie Issak Fines-Leleiwasa set to win his second test cap from the bench. Also read: Rugby World Cup organisers apologise to fans, working on new versions of national anthems Fines-Leleiwasa is one of six players with Fijian heritage in the matchday 23 along with number eight Rob Valetini and backs Samu Kerevi, Marika Koroibete, Mark Nawaqanitawase and Suliasi Vunivalu. Lock Nick Frost returns to the starting line-up in the second row after missing the last two tests because of a cut to his ear. Hooker Jordan Uelese has also recovered from injury and will back up starting rake David Porecki from the bench. Ben Donaldson, man of the match against Georgia after being brought into the side primarily for his place-kicking, retains the fullback spot ahead of Andrew Kellaway. Team: 15-Ben Donaldson, 14-Mark Nawaqanitawase, 13-Jordan Petaia, 12-Samu Kerevi, 11-Marika Koroibete, 10-Carter Gordon, 9-Nic White, 8-Rob Valetini, 7-Fraser McReight, 6-Tom Hooper, 5-Will Skelton, 4-Nick Frost, 3-James Slipper, 2-David Porecki, 1-Angus Bell. Replacements: 16-Jordan Uelese, 17-Blake Schoupp, 18-Zane Nonggorr, 19-Richie Arnold, 20-Rob Leota, 21-Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, 22-Lalakai Foketi, 23-Suliasi Vunivalu

Rugby World Cup: Injury scare for Australia captain Will Skelton ahead of Fiji test

South Africa's World Cup title defence suffered a major blow on Thursday when hooker Malcolm Marx was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a long-term knee injury as coach Jacques Nienaber delayed naming a replacement in the squad. Nienaber believes he has enough cover at hooker, despite Bongi Mbonambi being the only remaining specialist number two, opening the possibility of a recall for flyhalf Handre Pollard or centre Lukhanyo Am.

The pair were not deemed fit enough when the World Cup squad was announced on Aug. 8 but both played a major role in the team's 2019 triumph. Pollard, whose accuracy off the kicking tee has been missed, has been in training with his English club Leicester Tigers in recent weeks.

"We’ll assess our needs for the rest of the tournament and confirm who we are calling up as an additional player later this week," Nienaber said in a statement from South African Rugby.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-organisers-apologise-to-fans-working-on-new-versions-of-national-anthems-635628">Rugby World Cup organisers apologise to fans, working on new versions of national anthems</a>

Stormers hooker Joseph Dweba was the nominated standby option when the squad was announced. Marx, who was not included in the matchday squad to face Romania in Bordeaux on Sunday, went down at training on Wednesday after having his knee caught in contact.

Scans revealed the extent of the injury. One of the leading hookers in world rugby, Marx has also been a strong ball carrier for the Springboks and a key source of turnovers at the breakdown. "First and foremost, we are extremely disappointed for Malcolm, and we wish him all the best in his recovery," Nienaber said.

"We have enough cover at hooker with Bongi and Deon in the squad, while Marco has also been training there and has been named on all our team sheets so far as a hooker option."

Mbonambi was selected to start against Romania with Fourie his replacement on the bench. Van Staden will start among the loose forwards.

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South Africa's World Cup title defence suffered a major blow on Thursday when hooker Malcolm Marx was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a long-term knee injury as coach Jacques Nienaber delayed naming a replacement in the squad.

South Africa's World Cup title defence suffered a major blow on Thursday when hooker Malcolm Marx was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a long-term knee injury as coach Jacques Nienaber delayed naming a replacement in the squad. Nienaber believes he has enough cover at hooker, despite Bongi Mbonambi being the only remaining specialist number two, opening the possibility of a recall for flyhalf Handre Pollard or centre Lukhanyo Am. The pair were not deemed fit enough when the World Cup squad was announced on Aug. 8 but both played a major role in the team's 2019 triumph. Pollard, whose accuracy off the kicking tee has been missed, has been in training with his English club Leicester Tigers in recent weeks. "We’ll assess our needs for the rest of the tournament and confirm who we are calling up as an additional player later this week," Nienaber said in a statement from South African Rugby. Also read: Rugby World Cup organisers apologise to fans, working on new versions of national anthems Stormers hooker Joseph Dweba was the nominated standby option when the squad was announced. Marx, who was not included in the matchday squad to face Romania in Bordeaux on Sunday, went down at training on Wednesday after having his knee caught in contact. Scans revealed the extent of the injury. One of the leading hookers in world rugby, Marx has also been a strong ball carrier for the Springboks and a key source of turnovers at the breakdown. "First and foremost, we are extremely disappointed for Malcolm, and we wish him all the best in his recovery," Nienaber said. "We have enough cover at hooker with Bongi and Deon in the squad, while Marco has also been training there and has been named on all our team sheets so far as a hooker option." Mbonambi was selected to start against Romania with Fourie his replacement on the bench. Van Staden will start among the loose forwards. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: South Africa hooker Malcolm Marx ruled out with long-term knee injury

Rugby&nbsp;World Cup organisers apologised to the thousands of fans who were stuck outside the Marseille stadium and those who struggled to make their way to the Bordeaux arena, and promised to address the concerns over the national anthems on Wednesday. The World Cup pool D match between England and Argentina in Marseille got underway on Saturday to hundreds of empty seats as supporters were queuing outside while in Bordeaux tramway problems delayed fans arrival for the Ireland v Namibia game.

"We apologise to the fans who missed kickoff. It was our responsibility," France 2023 president Jacques Rivoal told a press conference. "We are very confident in our capacity in our capacity and in the capacity of the organising committee to address these challenges and find de relevant solutions," tournament director Michel Pousseau said. 
 
"We will never be complacent. Our ambition is to deliver the best for our fans. I want to acknowledge the frustration of our fans who could not make their way on time to the stadiums in Bordeaux and Marseille." 
 
"We are looking to redeploy some volunteers to facilitate the fans' trip to the stadiums, which is what we did in Marseille as soon as Sunday," France 2023 director general Julien Collette said.

France is under tight scrutiny with Paris hosting the Summer Olympics in 2024. "All the government services are mobilised to assist us. Everything we are putting in place to facilitate fan experience will help for the Games," Rivoal said. While French TV channel TF1 had a 2023 record 15.4 million viewers on Friday for the curtain raiser between France and New Zealand, those watching on TV, and those in the stadiums, were puzzled, if not outraged, by the rendition of the national anthems.

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The anthems were sung in canon by a choir of children, which made for a barely audible hubbub as fans sang in unison. Organisers have been reviewing the anthems and submitted a new version - in which the children do not sing in canon - to the national federation, saying the reactions had been "positive".

"Our traditional fans were surprised, destabilised as they're used to different versions of the national anthems," said Rivoal. "We now have simplified versions although we have kept the children's voices."

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Rugby World Cup organisers apologised to the thousands of fans who were stuck outside the Marseille stadium and those who struggled to make their way to the Bordeaux arena, and promised to address the concerns over the national anthems on Wednesday.

Rugby World Cup organisers apologised to the thousands of fans who were stuck outside the Marseille stadium and those who struggled to make their way to the Bordeaux arena, and promised to address the concerns over the national anthems on Wednesday. The World Cup pool D match between England and Argentina in Marseille got underway on Saturday to hundreds of empty seats as supporters were queuing outside while in Bordeaux tramway problems delayed fans arrival for the Ireland v Namibia game. "We apologise to the fans who missed kickoff. It was our responsibility," France 2023 president Jacques Rivoal told a press conference. "We are very confident in our capacity in our capacity and in the capacity of the organising committee to address these challenges and find de relevant solutions," tournament director Michel Pousseau said. "We will never be complacent. Our ambition is to deliver the best for our fans. I want to acknowledge the frustration of our fans who could not make their way on time to the stadiums in Bordeaux and Marseille." "We are looking to redeploy some volunteers to facilitate the fans' trip to the stadiums, which is what we did in Marseille as soon as Sunday," France 2023 director general Julien Collette said. France is under tight scrutiny with Paris hosting the Summer Olympics in 2024. "All the government services are mobilised to assist us. Everything we are putting in place to facilitate fan experience will help for the Games," Rivoal said. While French TV channel TF1 had a 2023 record 15.4 million viewers on Friday for the curtain raiser between France and New Zealand, those watching on TV, and those in the stadiums, were puzzled, if not outraged, by the rendition of the national anthems. Also read: Rugby World Cup: Wales's victory over Fiji raises hopes of emulating 2019 semi-final spot The anthems were sung in canon by a choir of children, which made for a barely audible hubbub as fans sang in unison. Organisers have been reviewing the anthems and submitted a new version - in which the children do not sing in canon - to the national federation, saying the reactions had been "positive". "Our traditional fans were surprised, destabilised as they're used to different versions of the national anthems," said Rivoal. "We now have simplified versions although we have kept the children's voices." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup organisers apologise to fans, working on new versions of national anthems

England flanker Tom Curry was on Tuesday banned for two matches following his red card in last weekend's 27-10 Rugby World Cup victory over Argentina.

The 25-year-old was sent off just three minutes into the Pool D encounter in Marseille on Saturday for a head-on-head tackle.

"The player accepted that foul play occurred and that the offence warranted a red card" the sport's governing body World Rugby said in a statement.

An independent disciplinary committee said the offence carries a minimum six-game suspension but found mitigating circumstances, including "an exemplary disciplinary record, apology to the player and good character", which warranted a 50 percent reduction in the sanction.

That would have meant a three-game ban but World Rugby said Curry was able to reduce that to two matches by applying to take part in the body's Coaching Intervention Programme aimed at modifying tackle technique.

It means he will miss England's next two Pool D matches against Japan in Nice on Sunday and minnows Chile in Lille on September 23.

He will be available again to face Samoa in Lille on October 7.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asia-cup-rohit-sharma-becomes-sixth-indian-to-complete-10000-odi-runs-during-ind-sl-super-four-clash-635230">Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma becomes sixth Indian to complete 10,000 ODI runs during Ind-SL Super Four clash</a>

Curry was initially yellow carded for the challenge on Argentina full-back Juan Cruz Mallia before it was upgraded to a red card by rugby's 'bunker' system.

It was his first match since he was injured in May's English Premiership final.

He was the third England player to be red-carded in their last four matches.

No.8 Billy Vunipola missed the Argentina match due to suspension after he was dismissed against Ireland in a pre-World Cup warm-up last month.

Fly-half Owen Farrell also missed the World Cup opener and will sit out England's next match against Japan too for his red card in a warm-up against Wales.

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England flanker Tom Curry was on Tuesday banned for two matches following his red card in last weekend's 27-10 Rugby World Cup victory over Argentina. The 25-year-old was sent off just three minutes into the Pool D encounter in Marseille on Saturday for a head-on-head tackle.

England flanker Tom Curry was on Tuesday banned for two matches following his red card in last weekend's 27-10 Rugby World Cup victory over Argentina. The 25-year-old was sent off just three minutes into the Pool D encounter in Marseille on Saturday for a head-on-head tackle. "The player accepted that foul play occurred and that the offence warranted a red card" the sport's governing body World Rugby said in a statement. An independent disciplinary committee said the offence carries a minimum six-game suspension but found mitigating circumstances, including "an exemplary disciplinary record, apology to the player and good character", which warranted a 50 percent reduction in the sanction. That would have meant a three-game ban but World Rugby said Curry was able to reduce that to two matches by applying to take part in the body's Coaching Intervention Programme aimed at modifying tackle technique. It means he will miss England's next two Pool D matches against Japan in Nice on Sunday and minnows Chile in Lille on September 23. He will be available again to face Samoa in Lille on October 7. ALSO READ | Asia Cup: Rohit Sharma becomes sixth Indian to complete 10,000 ODI runs during Ind-SL Super Four clash Curry was initially yellow carded for the challenge on Argentina full-back Juan Cruz Mallia before it was upgraded to a red card by rugby's 'bunker' system. It was his first match since he was injured in May's English Premiership final. He was the third England player to be red-carded in their last four matches. No.8 Billy Vunipola missed the Argentina match due to suspension after he was dismissed against Ireland in a pre-World Cup warm-up last month. Fly-half Owen Farrell also missed the World Cup opener and will sit out England's next match against Japan too for his red card in a warm-up against Wales. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: England's Tom Curry gets two-game ban over red card

Flyhalf Manie Libbok is the man to lead South Africa in their quest to retain the&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;World Cup, even if he has bad days from the kicking tee, captain Siya Kolisi said in the wake of their 18-3 victory over Scotland in Marseille on Sunday. Libbok is a key creative player for the Springboks in the backline and put in a man-of-the-match performance against the Scots, but kicked two from five relatively simple attempts at goal and has been wayward off the tee in the past.

But Kolisi said his side have no concerns around Libbok in potentially tight knockout contests and there were others who could take over kicking duties if required. "We play as a team and sometimes you are not good at one thing on the day," Kolisi told reporters. "But the way he attacked and the way he takes control of the team, people forget that and remember only the other stuff.

"Faf (de Klerk) can kick, Cheslin (Kolbe) can kick, there are a lot of guys we can call upon. If someone is lacking somewhere, then someone else will take over. "It is the same with me, sometimes I don’t know what to call to make in the game. So Duane (Vermeulen) or Eben (Etzebeth) will make the call instead. Even Manie will make a call."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-waless-victory-over-fiji-raises-hopes-of-emulating-2019-semi-final-spot-634938">Rugby World Cup: Wales's victory over Fiji raises hopes of emulating 2019 semi-final spot</a>

Kolisi insists that Libbok’s all-round game and ability to ignite their backline and create try-scoring opportunities, as he did for Kurt-Lee Arendse against the Scots with a superb crossfield kick, outweighs everything else. "Some flyhalves kick well but can’t tackle. He tackles as hard as anyone. So we don’t stress about it, if he misses, the next guy can go."

South Africa led 6-3 at halftime but Kolisi was not happy with the intensity they showed. "It was quite clear we did not start the way we normally do and with the intensity we usually bring," he said. "The conversations (at halftime) were clear. We had to improve. Set-piece is important and that is why we came out with that (improved) energy."

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Flyhalf Manie Libbok is the man to lead South Africa in their quest to retain the Rugby World Cup, even if he has bad days from the kicking tee, captain Siya Kolisi said in the wake of their 18-3 victory over Scotland in Marseille on Sunday.

Flyhalf Manie Libbok is the man to lead South Africa in their quest to retain the Rugby World Cup, even if he has bad days from the kicking tee, captain Siya Kolisi said in the wake of their 18-3 victory over Scotland in Marseille on Sunday. Libbok is a key creative player for the Springboks in the backline and put in a man-of-the-match performance against the Scots, but kicked two from five relatively simple attempts at goal and has been wayward off the tee in the past. But Kolisi said his side have no concerns around Libbok in potentially tight knockout contests and there were others who could take over kicking duties if required. "We play as a team and sometimes you are not good at one thing on the day," Kolisi told reporters. "But the way he attacked and the way he takes control of the team, people forget that and remember only the other stuff. "Faf (de Klerk) can kick, Cheslin (Kolbe) can kick, there are a lot of guys we can call upon. If someone is lacking somewhere, then someone else will take over. "It is the same with me, sometimes I don’t know what to call to make in the game. So Duane (Vermeulen) or Eben (Etzebeth) will make the call instead. Even Manie will make a call." Also read: Rugby World Cup: Wales's victory over Fiji raises hopes of emulating 2019 semi-final spot Kolisi insists that Libbok’s all-round game and ability to ignite their backline and create try-scoring opportunities, as he did for Kurt-Lee Arendse against the Scots with a superb crossfield kick, outweighs everything else. "Some flyhalves kick well but can’t tackle. He tackles as hard as anyone. So we don’t stress about it, if he misses, the next guy can go." South Africa led 6-3 at halftime but Kolisi was not happy with the intensity they showed. "It was quite clear we did not start the way we normally do and with the intensity we usually bring," he said. "The conversations (at halftime) were clear. We had to improve. Set-piece is important and that is why we came out with that (improved) energy." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Captain Siya Kolisi backs Flyhalf Manie Libbok to lead Springbok attack

Former Australia captain Michael Hooper has been through a "grieving process" after being left out of Eddie Jones's World Cup squad but is keeping fit just in case a spot opens up in France. The 31-year-old flanker was a surprise omission from Jones's youthful squad, despite being troubled by a calf injury. "I've had the whole grieving period, you know, and coming out the other side, and now it's turning into excitement to watch it all kick off and trying to stay fit secretly," he told Sydney radio station WSFM.

"So, you know, if there's a chance, I might be there." Hooper conceded his calf had not helped his chances of featuring in France, where the Wallabies will be captained by lock Will Skelton. "It wasn't as clean, probably, as some injuries are. Usually with an injury, you can push through the pain a bit. What I learned with this is not a type of push-through-pain situation," he told Australian broadcaster Nine Network.

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"So in terms of timing, in terms of selection, all those things – my only regret will be not being ready if I'm called upon. So, I'm pretty much there now." Hooper will join streaming service Stan's commentary team during the World Cup and confirmed reports he was planning a tilt at winning an Olympic medal in France next year with Australia's rugby sevens squad.

"The idea of an Olympics is just really a new challenge and exciting challenge," he said. "Aside from this calf, this season, I felt really fit, really healthy through my Waratahs season this year." Australia open their World Cup against Pool C rivals Georgia in Paris on Saturday.

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Former Australia captain Michael Hooper has been through a "grieving process" after being left out of Eddie Jones's World Cup squad but is keeping fit just in case a spot opens up in France.

Former Australia captain Michael Hooper has been through a "grieving process" after being left out of Eddie Jones's World Cup squad but is keeping fit just in case a spot opens up in France. The 31-year-old flanker was a surprise omission from Jones's youthful squad, despite being troubled by a calf injury. "I've had the whole grieving period, you know, and coming out the other side, and now it's turning into excitement to watch it all kick off and trying to stay fit secretly," he told Sydney radio station WSFM. "So, you know, if there's a chance, I might be there." Hooper conceded his calf had not helped his chances of featuring in France, where the Wallabies will be captained by lock Will Skelton. "It wasn't as clean, probably, as some injuries are. Usually with an injury, you can push through the pain a bit. What I learned with this is not a type of push-through-pain situation," he told Australian broadcaster Nine Network. Also read: Gilberto Hernandez, Panama's 26-year-old footballer, shot dead "So in terms of timing, in terms of selection, all those things – my only regret will be not being ready if I'm called upon. So, I'm pretty much there now." Hooper will join streaming service Stan's commentary team during the World Cup and confirmed reports he was planning a tilt at winning an Olympic medal in France next year with Australia's rugby sevens squad. "The idea of an Olympics is just really a new challenge and exciting challenge," he said. "Aside from this calf, this season, I felt really fit, really healthy through my Waratahs season this year." Australia open their World Cup against Pool C rivals Georgia in Paris on Saturday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Snubbed Michael Hooper keeping fit in hope of Rugby World Cup chance

England’s Rugby World Cup ambitions could be badly dented on Tuesday with two key players facing sanctions that may rule them out of the opening weeks of the tournament in France. Both Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola are staring at suspensions after being sent off in England’s last two warm-up tests. Vunipola goes before an independent disciplinary hearing on Tuesday over a dangerous tackle against Ireland at the weekend.

Any potential sanction could be announced straight after Tuesday's hearing or on Wednesday, leaving England to sweat over the fate of the only true number eight named in their 33-man squad for the tournament, which kicks off on Sept. 8. Flyhalf Farrell received a yellow card for a dangerous tackle on Wales loose forward Taine Basham, which was later upgraded to a red during the match on review.

A Six Nations Rugby independent judicial committee reduced it back to a yellow but World Rugby have appealed the surprise decision. It means the England captain faces an independent disciplinary panel for the second time in a week, amid widespread criticism of the initial decision on one hand and condemnation of the coverage of the case on the other. World Rugby’s appeal is also being heard on Tuesday but again with no date or time given for the announcement of the decision.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-hosts-france-announce-final-33-man-squad-627592">Rugby: World Cup hosts France announce final 33-man squad</a>

Both players are facing lengthy suspensions that can be reduced for mitigation but any ban will still have a major impact on England’s hopes as they prepare for their Pool D opener against Argentina in Marseille on Sept. 9.

As it is, the team are reeling from a raft of negative headlines, with Tuesday’s Times saying: "England at lowest ebb before the Rugby World Cup". Farrell’s father, Ireland coach Andy, described the debate surrounding his son's disciplinary process as a “disgusting circus” while England coach Steve Borthwick said his skipper had been subjected to “personal attacks”.

The flyhalf's original disciplinary hearing cleared him, finding mitigation in a late change in dynamics by Basham during the 19-17 win at Twickenham. Vunipola's sending off during Saturday's 29-10 defeat in Dublin was for clattering into Andrew Porter's head with his shoulder. He also had an initial yellow upgraded to red.

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England’s Rugby World Cup ambitions could be badly dented on Tuesday with two key players facing sanctions that may rule them out of the opening weeks of the tournament in France.

England’s Rugby World Cup ambitions could be badly dented on Tuesday with two key players facing sanctions that may rule them out of the opening weeks of the tournament in France. Both Owen Farrell and Billy Vunipola are staring at suspensions after being sent off in England’s last two warm-up tests. Vunipola goes before an independent disciplinary hearing on Tuesday over a dangerous tackle against Ireland at the weekend. Any potential sanction could be announced straight after Tuesday's hearing or on Wednesday, leaving England to sweat over the fate of the only true number eight named in their 33-man squad for the tournament, which kicks off on Sept. 8. Flyhalf Farrell received a yellow card for a dangerous tackle on Wales loose forward Taine Basham, which was later upgraded to a red during the match on review. A Six Nations Rugby independent judicial committee reduced it back to a yellow but World Rugby have appealed the surprise decision. It means the England captain faces an independent disciplinary panel for the second time in a week, amid widespread criticism of the initial decision on one hand and condemnation of the coverage of the case on the other. World Rugby’s appeal is also being heard on Tuesday but again with no date or time given for the announcement of the decision. Also read: Rugby: World Cup hosts France announce final 33-man squad Both players are facing lengthy suspensions that can be reduced for mitigation but any ban will still have a major impact on England’s hopes as they prepare for their Pool D opener against Argentina in Marseille on Sept. 9. As it is, the team are reeling from a raft of negative headlines, with Tuesday’s Times saying: "England at lowest ebb before the Rugby World Cup". Farrell’s father, Ireland coach Andy, described the debate surrounding his son's disciplinary process as a “disgusting circus” while England coach Steve Borthwick said his skipper had been subjected to “personal attacks”. The flyhalf's original disciplinary hearing cleared him, finding mitigation in a late change in dynamics by Basham during the 19-17 win at Twickenham. Vunipola's sending off during Saturday's 29-10 defeat in Dublin was for clattering into Andrew Porter's head with his shoulder. He also had an initial yellow upgraded to red. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby: Big blow! Disciplinary hearings threaten to dent England’s World Cup ambitions

Melvyn Jaminet’s 19-point haul for France at the weekend helped the injury-plagued fullback to secure a berth in the host nation’s 33-man squad for next month’s World Cup. Coach Fabien Galthie also included exciting 20-year-old wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey and newly capped loose forward Paul Boudehent when he revealed the squad on French television’s lunch time news on Monday.

He is also gambling on the fitness of prop Cyril Baille, who suffered calf injury a fortnight ago in the warm-up test win over Scotland at St Etienne, and Anthony Jelonch, who has been working his way back to fitness. Baille was originally ruled out for between four to six weeks but has remained with the French squad as the medical staff seek to hasten his recovery.

Flanker Jelonch has not played since rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament during the Six Nations showdown against Scotland in February but has been deemed fit enough to play at the World Cup. Notable omissions from the squad are Brice Dulin, who captained the team against Scotland in their first warm-up test at Murrayfield earlier this month, and scrumhalf Baptiste Serin.

Playing his first test for more than a year, Jaminet’s accurate kicking saw him propel France to a 34-17 win over Fiji on Saturday and work his way into the squad. Bielle-Biarrey has had a rapid rise and won three caps in successive weeks in the warm-up internationals while 23-year-old Boudehent comes into the squad after impressive performances with European champions La Rochelle.

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Antoine Hastoy and Matthieu Jalibert are the two flyhalfs who will jostle for the starting berth in the opening game against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Sept. 8 after Romain Ntamack was ruled out by injury last week.

Thomas Ramos, expected to start at fullback, could also fill that role if needed. Paul Willemse, who missed out on the last World Cup in Japan four years ago because of injury, was selected this time, having return successfully from injury in the test against Fiji.

Squad

Backs: Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Begles), Baptiste Couilloud (Lyon), Jonathan Danty (La Rochelle), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse, capt.), Gael Fickou (Racing 92), Antoine Hastoy (La Rochelle), Matthieu Jalibert (Bordeaux-Begles), Melvyn Jaminet (Toulouse), Maxime Lucu, Yoram Moefana, Damian Penaud (all Bordeaux-Begles), Thomas Ramos (Toulouse), Gabin Villiere (Toulon), Arthur Vincent (Montpellier)

Forwards: Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse), Gregory Alldritt, Uini Atonio (both La Rochelle), Cyril Baille (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent, Pierre Bourgarit (both La Rochelle), Francois Cros (Toulouse), Sipili Falatea (Bordeaux-Begles), Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse), Sekou Macalou (Stade Francais), Julien Marchand, Peato Mauvaka (both Toulouse), Charles Ollivon (Toulon), Romain Taofifenua (Lyon), Reda Wardi (La Rochelle), Paul Willemse (Montpellier), Cameron Woki (Racing 92).

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Melvyn Jaminet’s 19-point haul for France at the weekend helped the injury-plagued fullback to secure a berth in the host nation’s 33-man squad for next month’s World Cup.

Melvyn Jaminet’s 19-point haul for France at the weekend helped the injury-plagued fullback to secure a berth in the host nation’s 33-man squad for next month’s World Cup. Coach Fabien Galthie also included exciting 20-year-old wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey and newly capped loose forward Paul Boudehent when he revealed the squad on French television’s lunch time news on Monday. He is also gambling on the fitness of prop Cyril Baille, who suffered calf injury a fortnight ago in the warm-up test win over Scotland at St Etienne, and Anthony Jelonch, who has been working his way back to fitness. Baille was originally ruled out for between four to six weeks but has remained with the French squad as the medical staff seek to hasten his recovery. Flanker Jelonch has not played since rupturing an anterior cruciate ligament during the Six Nations showdown against Scotland in February but has been deemed fit enough to play at the World Cup. Notable omissions from the squad are Brice Dulin, who captained the team against Scotland in their first warm-up test at Murrayfield earlier this month, and scrumhalf Baptiste Serin. Playing his first test for more than a year, Jaminet’s accurate kicking saw him propel France to a 34-17 win over Fiji on Saturday and work his way into the squad. Bielle-Biarrey has had a rapid rise and won three caps in successive weeks in the warm-up internationals while 23-year-old Boudehent comes into the squad after impressive performances with European champions La Rochelle. Also read: NFL: Aaron Rodgers to make New York Jets debut vs Giants in preseason finale - Sources Antoine Hastoy and Matthieu Jalibert are the two flyhalfs who will jostle for the starting berth in the opening game against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Sept. 8 after Romain Ntamack was ruled out by injury last week. Thomas Ramos, expected to start at fullback, could also fill that role if needed. Paul Willemse, who missed out on the last World Cup in Japan four years ago because of injury, was selected this time, having return successfully from injury in the test against Fiji. Squad Backs: Louis Bielle-Biarrey (Bordeaux-Begles), Baptiste Couilloud (Lyon), Jonathan Danty (La Rochelle), Antoine Dupont (Toulouse, capt.), Gael Fickou (Racing 92), Antoine Hastoy (La Rochelle), Matthieu Jalibert (Bordeaux-Begles), Melvyn Jaminet (Toulouse), Maxime Lucu, Yoram Moefana, Damian Penaud (all Bordeaux-Begles), Thomas Ramos (Toulouse), Gabin Villiere (Toulon), Arthur Vincent (Montpellier) Forwards: Dorian Aldegheri (Toulouse), Gregory Alldritt, Uini Atonio (both La Rochelle), Cyril Baille (Toulouse), Paul Boudehent, Pierre Bourgarit (both La Rochelle), Francois Cros (Toulouse), Sipili Falatea (Bordeaux-Begles), Thibaud Flament (Toulouse), Jean-Baptiste Gros (Toulon), Anthony Jelonch (Toulouse), Sekou Macalou (Stade Francais), Julien Marchand, Peato Mauvaka (both Toulouse), Charles Ollivon (Toulon), Romain Taofifenua (Lyon), Reda Wardi (La Rochelle), Paul Willemse (Montpellier), Cameron Woki (Racing 92). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby: World Cup hosts France announce final 33-man squad

Wales have been hit by a third late withdrawal from their side to play South Africa in a&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;World Cup warm-up game in Cardiff on Saturday after wing Alex Cuthbert dropped out as a precaution, officials have confirmed. Cuthbert has a tight calf and will be replaced in the starting team by Tom Rogers. Louis Rees-Zammit comes onto the replacements bench. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Flyhalf Dan Biggar (back) and fullback Liam Williams (hamstring) withdrew from the team on Thursday, though coach Warren Gatland was at pains to stress that both were as a precaution. Gatland will announce his 33-player squad for the World Cup in France on Monday. Cuthbert’s place is now in serious doubt, having not featured in any of Wales’ warm-up games, or their training camps in Switzerland and Turkey. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-skipper-siya-kolisi-included-in-south-africas-squad-623569">Rugby World Cup: Skipper Siya Kolisi included in South Africa's squad</a>

<h2>Springboks delighted to have captain Kolisi back after injury</h2>

The return from injury of Springboks captain&nbsp;Siya&nbsp;Kolisi ahead of the Rugby World Cup is "massive" for South Africa, according to wing Cheslin Kolbe, who also believes the squad has more depth than when they lifted the trophy in Japan four years ago. Bok captain Kolisi suffered a serious knee injury in April, casting major doubt over his availability for the team's title defence, but he has been selected for the first time this year against Wales in a warm-up fixture in Cardiff on Saturday.

"It's massive for us as a team to have&nbsp;Siya&nbsp;back in the mix," Kolbe told reporters on Wednesday. "The way he has set his mind to return to play and focus on his rehab, putting in the extra hours with the physios, shows what type of person he is and what this team means to him. "He means a lot to us as players with his experience and the energy he brings. Even when he was not playing, he was on the sidelines giving input, helping a lot of the guys."

The Boks may not be favourites in many people's eyes to claim back-to-back World Cup wins, but Kolbe says that in many ways, they are better equipped for victory than four years ago. "We have got much more depth in the squad than 2019. It is actually scary. If someone gets injured, we know the next guy coming in will fill that role and is capable of doing even better." "The nice thing about this team is that no one is bigger than the next person and whoever gets the opportunity to play, we encourage that person to give him confidence and make sure he is well-prepared."

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Wales have been hit by a third late withdrawal from their side to play South Africa in a Rugby World Cup warm-up game in Cardiff on Saturday after wing Alex Cuthbert dropped out as a precaution, officials have confirmed.

Wales have been hit by a third late withdrawal from their side to play South Africa in a Rugby World Cup warm-up game in Cardiff on Saturday after wing Alex Cuthbert dropped out as a precaution, officials have confirmed. Cuthbert has a tight calf and will be replaced in the starting team by Tom Rogers. Louis Rees-Zammit comes onto the replacements bench. Flyhalf Dan Biggar (back) and fullback Liam Williams (hamstring) withdrew from the team on Thursday, though coach Warren Gatland was at pains to stress that both were as a precaution. Gatland will announce his 33-player squad for the World Cup in France on Monday. Cuthbert’s place is now in serious doubt, having not featured in any of Wales’ warm-up games, or their training camps in Switzerland and Turkey. Also read: Rugby World Cup: Skipper Siya Kolisi included in South Africa's squad Springboks delighted to have captain Kolisi back after injury The return from injury of Springboks captain Siya Kolisi ahead of the Rugby World Cup is "massive" for South Africa, according to wing Cheslin Kolbe, who also believes the squad has more depth than when they lifted the trophy in Japan four years ago. Bok captain Kolisi suffered a serious knee injury in April, casting major doubt over his availability for the team's title defence, but he has been selected for the first time this year against Wales in a warm-up fixture in Cardiff on Saturday. "It's massive for us as a team to have Siya back in the mix," Kolbe told reporters on Wednesday. "The way he has set his mind to return to play and focus on his rehab, putting in the extra hours with the physios, shows what type of person he is and what this team means to him. "He means a lot to us as players with his experience and the energy he brings. Even when he was not playing, he was on the sidelines giving input, helping a lot of the guys." The Boks may not be favourites in many people's eyes to claim back-to-back World Cup wins, but Kolbe says that in many ways, they are better equipped for victory than four years ago. "We have got much more depth in the squad than 2019. It is actually scary. If someone gets injured, we know the next guy coming in will fill that role and is capable of doing even better." "The nice thing about this team is that no one is bigger than the next person and whoever gets the opportunity to play, we encourage that person to give him confidence and make sure he is well-prepared." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Alex Cuthbert latest to withdraw from Wales team to play Springboks

England captain Owen Farrell's Rugby World Cup future is hanging in the balance once more after World Rugby said on Thursday it will appeal a Six Nations Rugby independent Judicial Committee decision to overturn his red card against Wales. Farrell, who has had several suspensions related to tackle technique in his career, was expected to receive a minimum four-game suspension for the act of foul play. But he was surprisingly let off the hook by the Judicial Committee on Wednesday, who agreed with the flyhalf that the offence warranted a yellow card only.

Farrell&nbsp;was sent off&nbsp;- a yellow card upgraded to red via the new review system -&nbsp;after smashing his shoulder into the face of Wales forward Taine Basham in the sort of no-arms tackle that got him a four-game ban this season playing for Saracens. The Judicial Committee decision caused uproar on social media, with ex-players and player welfare advocates almost unanimous in agreeing it set a bad example at a time when the long-term effect of head injuries is in the spotlight.

"World Rugby has today confirmed to the Rugby Football Union and Six Nations Rugby that it will exercise its right to appeal in regard to the Owen Farrell disciplinary decision following a careful review of the independent Judicial Committee's full written decision received on 16 August," World Rugby said. "Having considered the full written decision, World Rugby considers an appeal to be warranted. In line with provisions set out under Regulation 17, an independent Appeal Committee will be appointed to determine the matter at the earliest possible opportunity."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usa-women-need-the-best-coach-regardless-of-sex-says-world-cup-winner-jill-ellis-626341">USA women need the best coach regardless of sex, says World Cup winner Jill Ellis</a>

The statement added that while World Rugby "fully supports the important role that an independent disciplinary process plays in upholding the integrity and values of the sport", it is clear they too believe the judgement sends the wrong message. "Player welfare is the sport’s number one priority, and the Head Contact Process is central to that mission at the elite level of the sport," it continued.

Any suspension Farrell receives could potentially see him miss a number of England’s pool matches at the Rugby World Cup. They have two remaining warm-ups against Ireland and Fiji, with their first two World Cup games against Argentina and Japan crucial for Steve Borthwick’s side. England also have Samoa and Chile in their group.

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England captain Owen Farrell's Rugby World Cup future is hanging in the balance once more after World Rugby said on Thursday it will appeal a Six Nations Rugby independent Judicial Committee decision to overturn his red card against Wales.

England captain Owen Farrell's Rugby World Cup future is hanging in the balance once more after World Rugby said on Thursday it will appeal a Six Nations Rugby independent Judicial Committee decision to overturn his red card against Wales. Farrell, who has had several suspensions related to tackle technique in his career, was expected to receive a minimum four-game suspension for the act of foul play. But he was surprisingly let off the hook by the Judicial Committee on Wednesday, who agreed with the flyhalf that the offence warranted a yellow card only. Farrell was sent off - a yellow card upgraded to red via the new review system - after smashing his shoulder into the face of Wales forward Taine Basham in the sort of no-arms tackle that got him a four-game ban this season playing for Saracens. The Judicial Committee decision caused uproar on social media, with ex-players and player welfare advocates almost unanimous in agreeing it set a bad example at a time when the long-term effect of head injuries is in the spotlight. "World Rugby has today confirmed to the Rugby Football Union and Six Nations Rugby that it will exercise its right to appeal in regard to the Owen Farrell disciplinary decision following a careful review of the independent Judicial Committee's full written decision received on 16 August," World Rugby said. "Having considered the full written decision, World Rugby considers an appeal to be warranted. In line with provisions set out under Regulation 17, an independent Appeal Committee will be appointed to determine the matter at the earliest possible opportunity." Also read: USA women need the best coach regardless of sex, says World Cup winner Jill Ellis The statement added that while World Rugby "fully supports the important role that an independent disciplinary process plays in upholding the integrity and values of the sport", it is clear they too believe the judgement sends the wrong message. "Player welfare is the sport’s number one priority, and the Head Contact Process is central to that mission at the elite level of the sport," it continued. Any suspension Farrell receives could potentially see him miss a number of England’s pool matches at the Rugby World Cup. They have two remaining warm-ups against Ireland and Fiji, with their first two World Cup games against Argentina and Japan crucial for Steve Borthwick’s side. England also have Samoa and Chile in their group. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World Rugby to appeal England captain Owen Farrell's disciplinary decision

England have called up Northampton's Alex Mitchell to replace Jack van Poortvliet in their World Cup squad after the scrumhalf was ruled out of the tournament having sustained an ankle injury in Saturday's 19-17 win over Wales, the RFU said on Monday.

Van Poorvliet had established himself as the probable first choice scrumhalf for the tournament, with experienced due Ben Youngs and Danny Care also in the squad, but needs surgery on the injury. “It’s really bad luck for Jack, and we send him our very best wishes for a swift and successful recovery,” said England coach Steve Borthwick.

Owen Farrell will find out the length of his ban on Tuesday following his red card for as dangerous tackle in the Wales match. He is likely to miss at least four games, ruling him out of England's remaining two warm-ups against Ireland and Fiji and their first two World Cup games against Argentina and Japan - their biggest pool rivals.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australias-ex-deputy-pm-waltzes-with-wrong-matildas-in-world-cup-gaffe-625345">Australia's ex-deputy PM waltzes with wrong Matildas in World Cup gaffe</a>

<h2 data-label="Package" data-qa-component="item-headline" data-rc-highlight="headline" dir="auto" title="Rugby-France's Ntamack out of World Cup due to injury">France's Ntamack out of World Cup due to injury</h2>

French flyhalf Romain Ntamack has been ruled out of next month's World Cup after suffering a knee injury, the French&nbsp;rugby&nbsp;federation said on Monday. Ntamack was scheduled to undergo a knee scan on Monday after limping off the field in Saturday's warm-up test against Scotland.

"Romain, our thoughts are with you. The entire group supports you and wishes you a good recovery," the federation posted on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. "I'll be back," Ntamack posted earlier on Monday. The loss of the flamboyant pivot is a major blow to 'Les Bleus', with the hosts kicking off their World Cup campaign against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Sept. 8.

"Romain Ntamack, we will miss your flair, but there's no doubt you'll be close by and that this dream belongs to you as well," French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera also posted on the X platform. Matthieu Jalibert and Antoine Hastoy are in line to replace Ntamack.

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England have called up Northampton's Alex Mitchell to replace Jack van Poortvliet in their World Cup squad after the scrumhalf was ruled out of the tournament having sustained an ankle injury in Saturday's 19-17 win over Wales, the RFU said on Monday.

England have called up Northampton's Alex Mitchell to replace Jack van Poortvliet in their World Cup squad after the scrumhalf was ruled out of the tournament having sustained an ankle injury in Saturday's 19-17 win over Wales, the RFU said on Monday. Van Poorvliet had established himself as the probable first choice scrumhalf for the tournament, with experienced due Ben Youngs and Danny Care also in the squad, but needs surgery on the injury. “It’s really bad luck for Jack, and we send him our very best wishes for a swift and successful recovery,” said England coach Steve Borthwick. Owen Farrell will find out the length of his ban on Tuesday following his red card for as dangerous tackle in the Wales match. He is likely to miss at least four games, ruling him out of England's remaining two warm-ups against Ireland and Fiji and their first two World Cup games against Argentina and Japan - their biggest pool rivals. Also read: Australia's ex-deputy PM waltzes with wrong Matildas in World Cup gaffe France's Ntamack out of World Cup due to injury French flyhalf Romain Ntamack has been ruled out of next month's World Cup after suffering a knee injury, the French rugby federation said on Monday. Ntamack was scheduled to undergo a knee scan on Monday after limping off the field in Saturday's warm-up test against Scotland. "Romain, our thoughts are with you. The entire group supports you and wishes you a good recovery," the federation posted on social media site X, formerly known as Twitter. "I'll be back," Ntamack posted earlier on Monday. The loss of the flamboyant pivot is a major blow to 'Les Bleus', with the hosts kicking off their World Cup campaign against New Zealand at the Stade de France on Sept. 8. "Romain Ntamack, we will miss your flair, but there's no doubt you'll be close by and that this dream belongs to you as well," French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea-Castera also posted on the X platform. Matthieu Jalibert and Antoine Hastoy are in line to replace Ntamack. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby: Alex Mitchell replaces injured Jack Van Poortvliet in England World Cup squad

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi was almost lost for words as he consoled the trio of senior Springboks who look likely to miss the&nbsp;Rugby&nbsp;World Cup in France having been left out of the 33-player squad announced by coach Jacques Nienaber on Tuesday. Centre Lukhanyo Am (knee), flyhalf Handre Pollard (calf) and lock Lood de Jager (illness) are all missing from the group. Their absence is a huge blow to the world champions after they played a pivotal role in helping the side lift the trophy in Japan four years ago and remain key players.

Am and Pollard have been placed on a standby list and could be integrated into the squad if injuries force others to withdraw in the weeks ahead. "It's very sad, those are players who have done a lot for us and are players we need," Kolisi told reporters. "They've won a lot of matches for us and they have experience. I don't have the words to sum up their contributions to the team."

"It has been tough to even talk to them. With Lukhanyo we found out (on Monday) that he wasn't going to make it. I spoke to him and he wasn't feeling very positive, you never know what to say. "But with their injury timelines there is hope that they might still come back into the team if anybody is injured."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-skipper-siya-kolisi-included-in-south-africas-squad-623569">Rugby World Cup: Skipper Siya Kolisi included in South Africa's squad</a>

Kolisi faces his own race against time to prove his fitness after a long-term knee injury means he has not featured for the Boks this year but he has been named captain of the squad and could line up in warm-up games against Wales and New Zealand.

"I was scared, but the surgeon and the medical team at the Springboks gave me confidence that I would be okay," he said. "It all reminds you how quickly it can all be taken away from you." The Boks open their World Cup defence against Scotland in Marseille on Sept. 10 and also have world number one side Ireland in their pool, with only two teams advancing to the quarter-finals.

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South Africa captain Siya Kolisi was almost lost for words as he consoled the trio of senior Springboks who look likely to miss the Rugby World Cup in France having been left out of the 33-player squad announced by coach Jacques Nienaber on Tuesday.

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi was almost lost for words as he consoled the trio of senior Springboks who look likely to miss the Rugby World Cup in France having been left out of the 33-player squad announced by coach Jacques Nienaber on Tuesday. Centre Lukhanyo Am (knee), flyhalf Handre Pollard (calf) and lock Lood de Jager (illness) are all missing from the group. Their absence is a huge blow to the world champions after they played a pivotal role in helping the side lift the trophy in Japan four years ago and remain key players. Am and Pollard have been placed on a standby list and could be integrated into the squad if injuries force others to withdraw in the weeks ahead. "It's very sad, those are players who have done a lot for us and are players we need," Kolisi told reporters. "They've won a lot of matches for us and they have experience. I don't have the words to sum up their contributions to the team." "It has been tough to even talk to them. With Lukhanyo we found out (on Monday) that he wasn't going to make it. I spoke to him and he wasn't feeling very positive, you never know what to say. "But with their injury timelines there is hope that they might still come back into the team if anybody is injured." Also read: Rugby World Cup: Skipper Siya Kolisi included in South Africa's squad Kolisi faces his own race against time to prove his fitness after a long-term knee injury means he has not featured for the Boks this year but he has been named captain of the squad and could line up in warm-up games against Wales and New Zealand. "I was scared, but the surgeon and the medical team at the Springboks gave me confidence that I would be okay," he said. "It all reminds you how quickly it can all be taken away from you." The Boks open their World Cup defence against Scotland in Marseille on Sept. 10 and also have world number one side Ireland in their pool, with only two teams advancing to the quarter-finals. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi reveals sadness over injured trio ahead of Rugby World Cup

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi was included in the squad for next month’s Rugby World Cup but other key players left out because of injury, including influential flyhalf Handre Pollard and World Cup-winning centre Lukhanyo Am. Kolisi had major knee surgery in April but South Africa are confident he will be fit in time for their first pool game against Scotland in Marseille on Sept. 10.

There are 12 World Cup debutants but the Boks kept the bulk of the side that won the tournament in Japan four years ago. But Am, who twisted his knee in a warm-up test against Argentina on Saturday, and Pollard, who has a long-running calf injury, were among the notable omissions when the squad was unveiled at an elaborate televised ceremony named on Tuesday.

Also out is Lood de Jager, the giant lock who was also part of team four years ago. He has an unspecific chest complaint, SA Rugby said. "There were some tough decision that had to be made," coach Jacques Nienaber said. Am, De Jager and Pollard have been placed on standby with six other players and Nienaber said he was hopeful they may return to full training before the start of the tournament and be available in the event of injury to others.

"We still have two warm-up games left and a road to travel to build player combinations and fine tune the areas of our game that we feel we need to improve on, so we are by no means the final product at this stage," Nienaber added. Kolisi is expected to play in one of the two warm-up internationals that the Boks will play over the next fortnight, against Wales in Cardiff on Aug. 19 and New Zealand at Twickenham on Aug. 25, as he looks to prove his fitness.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rugby-world-cup-england-wont-listen-to-outside-noise-says-captain-owen-farrell-623168">Rugby World Cup: England won’t listen to outside 'noise', says captain Owen Farrell</a>

He heads a list of players who compete at a third World Cup tournament. Props Frans Malherbe and Trevor Nyakane, lock Eben Etzebeth, loose forwards Pieter-Steph du Toit and Duane Vermeulen and centres Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel are the others.

South Africa play in Pool B at the World Cup where they also meet Romania, Ireland and Tonga.

Squad

Backs: Damian de Allende (Panasonic Wild Knights), Kurt-Lee Arendse (Bulls), Faf de Klerk (Canon Eagles), Andre Esterhuizen (Harlequins), Jaden Hendrikse (Sharks), Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath), Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles), Willie le Roux (Bulls), Manie Libbok (Stormers), Makazole Mapimpi (Sharks), Canan Moodie (Bulls), Cobus Reinach (Montpellier), Damian Willemse (Stormers), Grant Williams (Sharks)

Forwards: Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz), Eben Etzebeth (Sharks), Deon Fourie (Stormers), Steven Kitshoff (Ulster), Jean Kleyn (Munster), Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi (both Sharks), Frans Malherbe (Stormers), Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears), Bongi Mbonambi (Sharks), Franco Mostert (Honda Heat), Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane (both Sharks), Marvin Orie (Stormers), Kwagga Smith (Shizuoka Blue Revs), RG Snyman (Munster), Marco van Staden (Bulls), Duane Vermeulen (unattached), Jasper Wiese (Leicester Tigers).

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South Africa captain Siya Kolisi was included in the squad for next month’s Rugby World Cup but other key players left out because of injury, including influential flyhalf Handre Pollard and World Cup-winning centre Lukhanyo Am.

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi was included in the squad for next month’s Rugby World Cup but other key players left out because of injury, including influential flyhalf Handre Pollard and World Cup-winning centre Lukhanyo Am. Kolisi had major knee surgery in April but South Africa are confident he will be fit in time for their first pool game against Scotland in Marseille on Sept. 10. There are 12 World Cup debutants but the Boks kept the bulk of the side that won the tournament in Japan four years ago. But Am, who twisted his knee in a warm-up test against Argentina on Saturday, and Pollard, who has a long-running calf injury, were among the notable omissions when the squad was unveiled at an elaborate televised ceremony named on Tuesday. Also out is Lood de Jager, the giant lock who was also part of team four years ago. He has an unspecific chest complaint, SA Rugby said. "There were some tough decision that had to be made," coach Jacques Nienaber said. Am, De Jager and Pollard have been placed on standby with six other players and Nienaber said he was hopeful they may return to full training before the start of the tournament and be available in the event of injury to others. "We still have two warm-up games left and a road to travel to build player combinations and fine tune the areas of our game that we feel we need to improve on, so we are by no means the final product at this stage," Nienaber added. Kolisi is expected to play in one of the two warm-up internationals that the Boks will play over the next fortnight, against Wales in Cardiff on Aug. 19 and New Zealand at Twickenham on Aug. 25, as he looks to prove his fitness. Also read: Rugby World Cup: England won’t listen to outside 'noise', says captain Owen Farrell He heads a list of players who compete at a third World Cup tournament. Props Frans Malherbe and Trevor Nyakane, lock Eben Etzebeth, loose forwards Pieter-Steph du Toit and Duane Vermeulen and centres Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel are the others. South Africa play in Pool B at the World Cup where they also meet Romania, Ireland and Tonga. Squad Backs: Damian de Allende (Panasonic Wild Knights), Kurt-Lee Arendse (Bulls), Faf de Klerk (Canon Eagles), Andre Esterhuizen (Harlequins), Jaden Hendrikse (Sharks), Cheslin Kolbe (Suntory Sungoliath), Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles), Willie le Roux (Bulls), Manie Libbok (Stormers), Makazole Mapimpi (Sharks), Canan Moodie (Bulls), Cobus Reinach (Montpellier), Damian Willemse (Stormers), Grant Williams (Sharks) Forwards: Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz), Eben Etzebeth (Sharks), Deon Fourie (Stormers), Steven Kitshoff (Ulster), Jean Kleyn (Munster), Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi (both Sharks), Frans Malherbe (Stormers), Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears), Bongi Mbonambi (Sharks), Franco Mostert (Honda Heat), Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane (both Sharks), Marvin Orie (Stormers), Kwagga Smith (Shizuoka Blue Revs), RG Snyman (Munster), Marco van Staden (Bulls), Duane Vermeulen (unattached), Jasper Wiese (Leicester Tigers). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: Skipper Siya Kolisi included in South Africa's squad

England are concentrating on themselves and their preparations for the Rugby World Cup rather than those questioning whether they are among the favourites to lift the trophy in France, captain Owen Farrell said on Monday.

Coach Steve Borthwick named his 33-player selection for the Sept. 8-Oct. 28 tournament just days after a dismal 20-9 defeat by Wales in Cardiff that has raised plenty of questions over the work the squad has been doing in the last few weeks.

Farrell will captain the side, as he did four years ago in Japan when England were beaten 32-12 by South Africa in the final, and says he is not listening to any of the outside "noise" that has surrounded the group.

"The whole thing for the team is to get the most out of ourselves now," Farrell told reporters. "We are looking forward to the tournament and the opportunity is brilliant for us, but all our focus now is on making sure we become a better rugby team.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-pittsburgh-steelers-minkah-fitzpatrick-returns-to-training-after-excused-absences-for-personal-reason-623142">NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers' Minkah Fitzpatrick returns to training after excused absences for personal reason</a>

"We have been doing that over the last few weeks and now the squad has been selected we can rip into that even more. "Tournament rugby is a lot about pressure. It is bigger than anything else you play in, more eyes, more noise. We have to focus on what we can control, and not let the other stuff creep in. External factors don’t really matter."

England open their World Cup against Argentina in Marseille on Sept. 9, and also have Japan, Samoa and Chile in Pool D. They will be heavy favourites to advance to the quarter-finals, despite their indifferent form in 2023, but Farrell also warned against complacency.

"You only need to look at the football World Cup (in Qatar) where Argentina lost to Saudi Arabia. Look at previous Rugby World Cups where New Zealand have been so dominant (but not lifted the trophy) … like in 2007 when South Africa won," he said. "We are where we are at the minute and we are working hard to be the best we can be. The dream is always to be in the big game at the end."

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England are concentrating on themselves and their preparations for the Rugby World Cup rather than those questioning whether they are among the favourites to lift the trophy in France, captain Owen Farrell said on Monday.

England are concentrating on themselves and their preparations for the Rugby World Cup rather than those questioning whether they are among the favourites to lift the trophy in France, captain Owen Farrell said on Monday. Coach Steve Borthwick named his 33-player selection for the Sept. 8-Oct. 28 tournament just days after a dismal 20-9 defeat by Wales in Cardiff that has raised plenty of questions over the work the squad has been doing in the last few weeks. Farrell will captain the side, as he did four years ago in Japan when England were beaten 32-12 by South Africa in the final, and says he is not listening to any of the outside "noise" that has surrounded the group. "The whole thing for the team is to get the most out of ourselves now," Farrell told reporters. "We are looking forward to the tournament and the opportunity is brilliant for us, but all our focus now is on making sure we become a better rugby team. Also read: NFL: Pittsburgh Steelers' Minkah Fitzpatrick returns to training after excused absences for personal reason "We have been doing that over the last few weeks and now the squad has been selected we can rip into that even more. "Tournament rugby is a lot about pressure. It is bigger than anything else you play in, more eyes, more noise. We have to focus on what we can control, and not let the other stuff creep in. External factors don’t really matter." England open their World Cup against Argentina in Marseille on Sept. 9, and also have Japan, Samoa and Chile in Pool D. They will be heavy favourites to advance to the quarter-finals, despite their indifferent form in 2023, but Farrell also warned against complacency. "You only need to look at the football World Cup (in Qatar) where Argentina lost to Saudi Arabia. Look at previous Rugby World Cups where New Zealand have been so dominant (but not lifted the trophy) … like in 2007 when South Africa won," he said. "We are where we are at the minute and we are working hard to be the best we can be. The dream is always to be in the big game at the end." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby World Cup: England won’t listen to outside 'noise', says captain Owen Farrell

Wallabies coach Eddie Jones admitted on Saturday that his flailing team were "massive underdogs" against the "red hot" All Blacks next weekend, but said it could work in their favour.

Australia head into the Melbourne Cricket Ground clash in a hole after consecutive Rugby Championship defeats to South Africa and Argentina, leaving the former England boss with back-to-back losses since taking over.

In contrast, New Zealand romped to victory over the Springboks and Pumas, making them heavy favourites to win again as they build up to the World Cup in France.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-ready-to-sell-kylian-mbappe-this-summer-as-star-striker-left-out-of-29-man-squad-for-japan-tour-618312">PSG ready to sell Kylian Mbappe this summer as star striker left out of 29-man squad for Japan tour</a>

"In this situation this week we're massive underdogs," Jones said on a Zoom call from Australia's training base in Queensland. "But that creates an opportunity for us.

"We know that if we can put pressure on a&nbsp;team that is red hot favourites, sometimes that pressure can turn into increased pressure on them and stress in the team, and that's our aim.

"If you look at Australia at the moment, probably no one outside our immediate squad thinks we've got a chance of winning, which sometimes can drive a bit more closeness within the team, a bit more purpose about what we're doing," he added.

Jones was brought in to replace the axed Dave Rennie this year after the team lost nine of 13 internationals last season.

But it has been a rocky start to his second stint in the job, crashing 34-31 to Argentina on the back of a 43-12 thrashing by world champions South Africa.

He admitted they&nbsp;had fallen short of expectations, but suggested it could prove beneficial for the September-October World Cup, as the "teething problems" had been identified now.

"I've got no doubt we're not as clear about how we want to play as we want to be. The only problem I see with that is we're not performing as we'd like to perform," he said.

"But in a build-up to a World Cup these sorts of teething problems are sometimes the best problems to have.&nbsp;

"And sometimes you find out more about your team in these situations than you do when you think things are going along swimmingly. And they're not getting along swimmingly."

Jones is still experimenting, trying to determine the best squad to take to the World Cup, with backs Tom Wright and Reece Hodge among those dropped for the All Blacks match.

He noted that the team lacked alignment in defence and attack around the breakdown against Argentina.

"That's part of the issues we've got at the moment," he said. "It's an understanding issue -– understanding what we need, what decisions need to be made by the players."

Co-captain Michael Hooper missed the Pumas match with a calf injury and is racing the clock to be fit.

"Calf injuries, we tend to be more careful with their rehab than other injuries so medical staff are being pretty careful with him," said the coach.

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Wallabies coach Eddie Jones admitted on Saturday that his flailing team were "massive underdogs" against the "red hot" All Blacks next weekend, but said it could work in their favour.

Wallabies coach Eddie Jones admitted on Saturday that his flailing team were "massive underdogs" against the "red hot" All Blacks next weekend, but said it could work in their favour. Australia head into the Melbourne Cricket Ground clash in a hole after consecutive Rugby Championship defeats to South Africa and Argentina, leaving the former England boss with back-to-back losses since taking over. In contrast, New Zealand romped to victory over the Springboks and Pumas, making them heavy favourites to win again as they build up to the World Cup in France. Also Read: PSG ready to sell Kylian Mbappe this summer as star striker left out of 29-man squad for Japan tour "In this situation this week we're massive underdogs," Jones said on a Zoom call from Australia's training base in Queensland. "But that creates an opportunity for us. "We know that if we can put pressure on a team that is red hot favourites, sometimes that pressure can turn into increased pressure on them and stress in the team, and that's our aim. "If you look at Australia at the moment, probably no one outside our immediate squad thinks we've got a chance of winning, which sometimes can drive a bit more closeness within the team, a bit more purpose about what we're doing," he added. Jones was brought in to replace the axed Dave Rennie this year after the team lost nine of 13 internationals last season. But it has been a rocky start to his second stint in the job, crashing 34-31 to Argentina on the back of a 43-12 thrashing by world champions South Africa. He admitted they had fallen short of expectations, but suggested it could prove beneficial for the September-October World Cup, as the "teething problems" had been identified now. "I've got no doubt we're not as clear about how we want to play as we want to be. The only problem I see with that is we're not performing as we'd like to perform," he said. "But in a build-up to a World Cup these sorts of teething problems are sometimes the best problems to have. "And sometimes you find out more about your team in these situations than you do when you think things are going along swimmingly. And they're not getting along swimmingly." Jones is still experimenting, trying to determine the best squad to take to the World Cup, with backs Tom Wright and Reece Hodge among those dropped for the All Blacks match. He noted that the team lacked alignment in defence and attack around the breakdown against Argentina. "That's part of the issues we've got at the moment," he said. "It's an understanding issue -– understanding what we need, what decisions need to be made by the players." Co-captain Michael Hooper missed the Pumas match with a calf injury and is racing the clock to be fit. "Calf injuries, we tend to be more careful with their rehab than other injuries so medical staff are being pretty careful with him," said the coach. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Rugby Championship: Australia 'underdogs' against All Black, says Wallabies coach Eddie Jones

The Canterbury Crusaders claimed a seventh straight title with a 25-20 win over the Waikato Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final Saturday on coach Scott Robertson's swansong.

The Chiefs led 20-15 early in the second half, but the Crusaders fought back with Codie Taylor grabbing a converted try before Richie Mo'unga slotted a late penalty.

This was Robertson's final match with the Crusaders before leaving to coach the All Blacks following the Rugby World Cup, which kicks off in September.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-concacaf-bans-four-players-following-brawl-in-usmnt-mexico-nations-league-semifinal-608274">CONCACAF bans four players following brawl in USMNT-Mexico Nations League semifinal</a>

Under his stewardship, the Christchurch-based franchise has won a perfect set of seven consecutive titles since 2017.

"I'm just really proud," an emotional Robertson said of the victory. "We kept pushing them back on defence."

The match turned in the 72nd minute when Chiefs co-skipper and All Blacks captain Sam Cane was shown a yellow card.

From the resulting penalty, Test veteran Taylor was driven across for his 42nd career try, setting the record for the most tries by a forward in Super Rugby.

Roared on by their home crowd, the Chiefs' best chance of victory was a missed long-range penalty attempt from fly-half Damian McKenzie.

Mo'unga rounded out the scoring with a penalty after the final hooter, sparking emotional scenes among a Crusaders side who were missing seven All Blacks through injury.

Taylor, who scored two tries on the night, said the players were motivated to win for their departing personnel including Mo'unga and Sam Whitelock.

"I'm lost for words, just so proud of the effort," Taylor told Sky Sport.

"I can't get the fact out of my head that the boys are leaving and how much it means to them. It's special. All the boys leaving really stood up tonight.

"Can't take anything from the Chiefs, they threw everything at us. We just managed to hang in there."

It was a heartbreaking result for the Chiefs, who appeared to have the firepower to end a decade-long title drought after dropping only one game in the regular season.

Two long-serving Chiefs players -- All Blacks Brodie Retallick and Brad Weber -- were playing their last game before heading overseas.

The Crusaders led 15-10 at half-time but the margin could have been greater after they dominated possession, helped by the Chiefs' ill discipline.

The home side were forced to play with 14 men for two 10-minute periods following yellow cards for All Blacks Anton Lienert-Brown and Luke Jacobson before Cane was also sin-binned.

"We nearly got there," said Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan.

"It felt like we created enough to win despite those three yellow cards -- you can't fault the Crusaders."

Weber also lamented the home side's lack of discipline.

"It sucks, this crowd deserved to see us win tonight and jeez, if we had done it with 14 men for 30 minutes it would have been a hell of a story to tell," he said.

"To come up just short... it's devastating."

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The Canterbury Crusaders claimed a seventh straight title with a 25-20 win over the Waikato Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final Saturday on coach Scott Robertson's swansong.

The Canterbury Crusaders claimed a seventh straight title with a 25-20 win over the Waikato Chiefs in the Super Rugby Pacific final Saturday on coach Scott Robertson's swansong. The Chiefs led 20-15 early in the second half, but the Crusaders fought back with Codie Taylor grabbing a converted try before Richie Mo'unga slotted a late penalty. This was Robertson's final match with the Crusaders before leaving to coach the All Blacks following the Rugby World Cup, which kicks off in September. Also Read: CONCACAF bans four players following brawl in USMNT-Mexico Nations League semifinal Under his stewardship, the Christchurch-based franchise has won a perfect set of seven consecutive titles since 2017. "I'm just really proud," an emotional Robertson said of the victory. "We kept pushing them back on defence." The match turned in the 72nd minute when Chiefs co-skipper and All Blacks captain Sam Cane was shown a yellow card. From the resulting penalty, Test veteran Taylor was driven across for his 42nd career try, setting the record for the most tries by a forward in Super Rugby. Roared on by their home crowd, the Chiefs' best chance of victory was a missed long-range penalty attempt from fly-half Damian McKenzie. Mo'unga rounded out the scoring with a penalty after the final hooter, sparking emotional scenes among a Crusaders side who were missing seven All Blacks through injury. Taylor, who scored two tries on the night, said the players were motivated to win for their departing personnel including Mo'unga and Sam Whitelock. "I'm lost for words, just so proud of the effort," Taylor told Sky Sport. "I can't get the fact out of my head that the boys are leaving and how much it means to them. It's special. All the boys leaving really stood up tonight. "Can't take anything from the Chiefs, they threw everything at us. We just managed to hang in there." It was a heartbreaking result for the Chiefs, who appeared to have the firepower to end a decade-long title drought after dropping only one game in the regular season. Two long-serving Chiefs players -- All Blacks Brodie Retallick and Brad Weber -- were playing their last game before heading overseas. The Crusaders led 15-10 at half-time but the margin could have been greater after they dominated possession, helped by the Chiefs' ill discipline. The home side were forced to play with 14 men for two 10-minute periods following yellow cards for All Blacks Anton Lienert-Brown and Luke Jacobson before Cane was also sin-binned. "We nearly got there," said Chiefs coach Clayton McMillan. "It felt like we created enough to win despite those three yellow cards -- you can't fault the Crusaders." Weber also lamented the home side's lack of discipline. "It sucks, this crowd deserved to see us win tonight and jeez, if we had done it with 14 men for 30 minutes it would have been a hell of a story to tell," he said. "To come up just short... it's devastating." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Super Rugby: Canterbury Crusaders beat Waikato Chiefs for seventh straight title

French rugby international Mohamed Haouas was on Tuesday handed a one-year jail sentence for hitting his wife in public.

Haouas, 29, who has played 16 times for France, told a court he had lost control when he saw his wife smoking at the shopping centre where she worked, after telling him she had given up.

"She has the right to smoke... but the problem is that she lied to me... and I said to myself that if she can lie about the cigarette, she could lie about other things," he told the court in Montpellier, southern France.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/want-to-dedicate-this-win-to-one-of-the-special-members-of-the-team-ms-dhoni-jadeja-after-csks-5th-ipl-title-598217">Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title</a>

The court did not follow the&nbsp;recommendations of the prosecution, who had called for Haouas to face 18 months in prison, beginning immediately.

Instead he will remain free while he launches an appeal, or he could wear an electronic tag.

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French rugby international Mohamed Haouas was on Tuesday handed a one-year jail sentence for hitting his wife in public. Haouas, 29, who has played 16 times for France, told a court he had lost control when he saw his wife smoking at the shopping centre where she worked, after telling him she had given up.

French rugby international Mohamed Haouas was on Tuesday handed a one-year jail sentence for hitting his wife in public. Haouas, 29, who has played 16 times for France, told a court he had lost control when he saw his wife smoking at the shopping centre where she worked, after telling him she had given up. "She has the right to smoke... but the problem is that she lied to me... and I said to myself that if she can lie about the cigarette, she could lie about other things," he told the court in Montpellier, southern France. ALSO READ | Want to dedicate this win to one of the special members of the team MS Dhoni: Jadeja after CSK's 5th IPL title The court did not follow the recommendations of the prosecution, who had called for Haouas to face 18 months in prison, beginning immediately. Instead he will remain free while he launches an appeal, or he could wear an electronic tag. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French rugby's Mohamed Haouas given 1-year jail sentence for hitting wife

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