All Blacks pair ruled out

Injured New Zealand backs Colin Slade and Mils Muliaina have been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup.

The All Blacks have called up Bath’s new recruit Stephen Donald and wing Hosea Gear.

Slade, who had become first choice fly-half after the All Blacks lost Dan Carter, suffered a groin injury tear in yesterday’s 33-10 quarter-final victory over Argentina.

Muliaina fractured his shoulder and failed to re-appear at half-time in what was his 100th – and now last – Test appearance for the All Blacks.

New Zealand coach Graham Henry said: “It’s obviously very disappointing to have tournament-ending injuries.

“Hosea and Stephen will join the team on Tuesday morning. That’s the reality of the situation.”

The All Blacks campaign has been beset by setbacks, with star fly-half Carter ruled out with a groin problem and captain Richie McCaw playing through a foot injury.