Australia captain David Pocock suffered a serious knee injury during yesterday’s 27-19 defeat by the All Blacks, the Wallabies have announced on their official website.

NEW ZEALAND head coach Graham Henry hailed the All Blacks’ 20-6 destruction of Australia in the Rugby World Cup semi-final as “outstanding”.

AUSTRALIA crept into the World Cup semi-finals after James O’Connor landed a late penalty to send champions South Africa crashing out.

AUSTRALIA coach Robbie Deans was happy with the progress made in the win over the United States, but there was also cause for concern as the Wallabies’ injury toll mounted in Wellington.

David Pocock has been withdrawn from Australia’s starting line-up just before his teams crucial World Cup battle against Ireland at Eden Park in Auckland, kick-off 9.30am Irish time.

SAMOA produced one of their most memorable victories in international rugby yesterday, dealing a damaging World Cup blow to Ireland’s key group rivals only two months out from the tournament.

IF ever Martin Johnson was going to dash down the touchline, punching the air in celebration like Jose Mourinho it was at Twickenham on Saturday.

Australia 22 New Zealand 23

Robbie Deans has made three changes to Australia’s squad for their Tri Nations clash with South Africa on Sunday.

IN-FORM Australia fly-half Quade Cooper has been suspended for two weeks after being cited for a dangerous tackle during Australia’s Tri Nations Test 30-13 win against South Africa.

Winger Drew Mitchell is the most notable omission from Australia's squad for the forthcoming Tri-Nations series.