A powerful earthquake off the Solomon Islands has generated a tsunami that damaged dozens of homes and reportedly killed several people in the South Pacific island chain.

South Africa lock Victor Matfield has dismissed suggestions Saturday’s Tri-Nations clash with Australia is a dead rubber, despite the Springboks having nothing left to play for.

Australia coach Robbie Deans has backed former rugby league star Ryan Cross to fill the boots of skipper Stirling Mortlock in Saturday night's Bledisloe Cup clash with New Zealand.