Wallabies coach Robbie Deans says the total rivalry between five eighth Quade Cooper and All Blacks captain Richie McCaw is healthy.

A growing rivalry between the two superstars appears to have developed since a test in Hong Kong last year.

It was in the spotlight again after Cooper was charged with foul play after his knee struck McCaw in the head during the Tri Nations decider.

A judicial hearing in Brisbane cleared Cooper, saving the playmaker from a potential suspension.

Deans expects the brutal physicality the Wallabies produced to beat the All Blacks in Brisbane to be repeated in a do or die atmosphere at the Rugby World Cup.

The Wallabies open their Rugby World campaign against Italy next Sunday at 3.30pm.


Story by: Dreu Vukailagi