Rugby-New Zealand hammer sorry Italy to close in on World Cup quarter-finals


Rugby Union - Rugby World Cup 2023 - Pool A - New Zealand v Italy - Groupama Stadium, Lyon, France - September 29, 2023 New Zealand's Ardie Savea in action with Italy's Paolo Garbisi REUTERS/Paul Childs

LYON, France (Reuters) - Three-time champions New Zealand ran in 14 tries to destroy Italy 96-17 for a bonus-point victory in Pool A and take a decisive step towards the quarter-finals at the Rugby World Cup on Friday.

The All Blacks, with lock Sam Whitelock celebrating a record 149th cap, showed no mercy at Lyon's Groupama Stadium as Will Jordan (2), Aaron Smith (3), Mark Telea, Ardie Savea (2), Brodie Retallick, Dalton Papali'i, Dane Coles (2), Damian McKenzie and Anton Lienert-Brown scored tries -- all but one converted by Richie Mo'unga (9) or McKenzie (4).

The Star Festive Promo: Get 35% OFF Digital Access

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Rugby

Rugby-Waratahs coach McKellar determined to keep Jorgensen fit for Super Rugby challenge
Rugby-Capuozzo back in Italian side to take on France
Rugby-France reshuffle second row for Six Nations clash with Italy
Rugby-Evergreen Slipper packs down for 200th Super Rugby match
Rugby-Crowley to start as Ireland head to Twickenham in search of form
Rugby-Wales select uncapped wing Hamer-Webb for visit of Scotland
Rugby-Furlong ridicule out of order, says Italy prop who gave him 'wings'
Rugby-Right royal mix-up - Princess Anne mistakes England prop Heyes for TV star Marler
Rugby-Hurricanes lose Love for start of Super Rugby season
Rugby-England's Arundell cleared to face Ireland

Others Also Read