Australia have suffered a major injury blow on the eve of the World Cup final against New Zealand with veteran prop Steve Price ruled out.

The tourists rescued from a stricken Antarctic cruise liner were beginning their long journey home today.

IRELAND’S Brian Carney yesterday stunned the rugby league world by announcing his retirement at the age of 30.

Jonah Lomu has turned down the offer of a one-year contract with NRL side Gold Coast Titans, preferring instead to remain in rugby union.