Radicalism needed for ‘unsung heroes’ as top eight make last eight

FORTY games and over three weeks of rugby concluded yesterday, with the IRB’s eight seeded teams all safely through to the last eight on schedule.

England's 111-13 annihilation of Uruguay, and New Zealand's thrilling 53-37 win over Wales brought the curtain down on the first act of rugby's showcase event, which despite some bright moments, was by far too predictable.

And while that sets up an enticing prospect for the eight games that remain through to the final here on November 22, it does little to stifle the growing chorus of criticism over the way the competition is organised.