Beale ruled out of clash with ABs
Beale had been touch-and-go all week as he battled through a hamstring injury suffered in last Sunday’s quarterfinal win over South Africa.
The gifted 22-year-old, who was one of five nominees for last year’s International Rugby Board Player of the Year award, was withdrawn at today’s captain’s run at North Harbour Stadium.
While Beale did take part in some of the drills, he was unable to stride out confidently enough.
That confirmed for the player and coach Robbie Deans that he wasn’t ready to play.
The versatile Adam Ashley-Cooper now moves from centre to fullback, with Queenslander Anthony Faingaa slotting in to the No13 position.
Rob Horne comes on to the Wallaby bench.
Meanwhile, tonight is the Wales and France clash for a place in the Rugby World Cup final.
A young Welsh side is trying to control their nerves while the French are summoning the full range of emotions.
Coaching France is guaranteed to give you a few sleepless nights and today Marc Lievremont admitted he is feeling the pressure ahead of tonight’s semifinal.
Speaking through a translator, Lievremont said that he will be able to sleep in 10 days time after the final.
As well as anger, France have experience; seven players in the 22 for this match featured in their 2007 RWC semifinal defeat to England.
And in total France has now reached the semifinals and beyond 6 times, whereas Wales is making their first appearance in the last four since 1987.
But Wales have faith in their youth.
Wales forwards coach Robin McBride said experience is an advantage at certain times but also it can work against you.
The first semifinal of the Rugby World Cup today at 8pm will see France meet Wales and tomorrow at 8pm the All Blacks meet the Wallabies and the live commentaries of both matches can be heard on our sister station, Viti FM with Malakai Veisamasama and Ilivasi Tabua.
Story by: Dreu Vukailagi
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