Mallett hammers out warning to Irish ahead of crunch clash

Italy coach Nick Mallett today warned Ireland to expect a torrid time in the scrum when the two teams meet on Sunday.

Mallett, who could be overseeing his final match as Italy boss in Sunday's critical Pool C showdown at Otago Stadium, said: "Ireland dominated Australia physically but we know perfectly well that we've got a better front row than them and we're going to go in there to prove that on Sunday."

The scrum is a source of pride to Italian rugby but Ireland have improved dramatically since the emergence of tighthead Mike Ross in the last year.

And defence coach Les Kiss is confident Ireland will be able to match Italy in that department. "Coaches are always going to talk up what's good for them," said the Australian. "There's no doubt, no mystery behind it - they've got a good scrum. But we'll back our guys as well, there's no doubt there.

"There's a lot of discussion that will be around the scrum and it's no surprise Mallett is going to talk that up. But the scrum is just one part of it."

Wales assistant coach Rob Howley insists the squad are fully focused on Sunday's match with Fiji rather than a probable World Cup quarter-final against Ireland.

"It's just about not getting ahead of yourself. Sunday is our next game. If it's good, then we can look ahead to the quarter-finals," said Howley.

Wales coach Warren Gatland will name his team tomorrow. Shane Williams (thigh) is a doubt while full-back James Hook (shoulder) and flanker Dan Lydiate (ankle) are out.

Australia have named number eight Radike Samo on the wing for Saturday's World Cup clash with Russia in Nelson due to the number of injuries sustained by the backline.