Tue 14 Nov 2023 | 11:48
New Zealand media cites 'unnamed source' admitting World Cup final try should have stood

In the latest sage of the New Zealand media mulling over their Rugby World Cup final loss to South Africa. Prominent New Zealand media outlet Stuff, has reported that an unnamed source claims World Rugby has privately acknowledged the disallowed try in the Rugby World Cup final should have stood.

According to Stuff, the unnamed source stated, "World Rugby has privately acknowledged to the All Blacks that the ruling out of Aaron Smith’s try in the final was, in fact, outside the rules, but is refusing to publicly acknowledge that." This revelation follows weeks of discontent within the New Zealand media, particularly over on-field rulings during the final.

Following the championship clash, All Blacks coach Ian Foster expressed dissatisfaction, alluding to disputes over certain decisions. "Hopefully, they do," Foster remarked, confirming that he had sent a 'please explain' message to World Rugby. However, Foster remained tight-lipped about specifics, stating, "Oh, I think you can guess."

The disallowed try involving Aaron Smith became a focal point of contention, with Foley's intervention drawing significant criticism from the All Blacks camp. The reported acknowledgment by World Rugby could reignite debates over the final's officiating and prompt further scrutiny of decisions that may have influenced the outcome.

It's noteworthy that Stuff cites an unnamed source, adding an element of ambiguity to the report. Additionally, the article highlights New Zealand's ongoing dissatisfaction since the final, casting a negative shadow on the aftermath of the championship.

0 Comments