Boks must follow All Blacks’ lead

A clinical forward performance by the Springboks will silence the partisan crowd and pave the way for a comfortable win over Japan, writes JON CARDINELLI in Tokyo.

Kolisi: Boks know what’s required

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi says the Springboks won’t take Japan lightly, while flyhalf Handre Pollard insists that the Boks will take the points however they come on Sunday.

‘Heartbroken’ Schmidt praises ABs

Departing coach Joe Schmidt says that Ireland’s failure to make the All Blacks work for their points was his side’s undoing following their 46-14 quarter-final defeat in Tokyo.

Highlights: All Blacks vs Ireland

The All Blacks thumped Ireland 46-14 on Saturday to book a semi-final date with England next weekend.

Japan close in on Boks in rankings

Japan has moved up to sixth in the World Rugby rankings following Australia’s 40-16 quarter-final defeat by England on Saturday.

Jones: No sympathy for Australia

England coach Eddie Jones feels no sympathy for his native Australia following England’s resounding quarter-final victory over the Wallabies on Saturday.

Emotional farewell for Best

Due credit was paid to retiring Ireland skipper Rory Best, who couldn’t hide his emotion following their quarter-final loss to the All Blacks on Saturday.

‘We pride ourselves on our work rate’

Coach Steve Hansen was a satisfied man after the All Blacks’ quarter-final triumph, while Ireland counterpart Joe Schmidt acknowledged they had been a ‘bit flat’ all tournament.

Awesome ABs sound ominous title warning

The All Blacks produced a defensive masterclass on Saturday to destroy Ireland and remind all and sundry why they are favourites to win the 2019 World Cup, writes JON CARDINELLI at the Tokyo Stadium.

Exceptional All Blacks thrash Ireland

Aaron Smith scored two tries as the All Blacks handed Ireland yet another World Cup quarter-final defeat with a 46-14 win in Tokyo on Saturday. DYLAN JACK reports.