Marco Simoncelli dies after MotoGP crash in Sepang

Simoncelli was involved in an accident with two other riders

Italian rider Marco Simoncelli has died after a horrific crash at the Malaysian MotoGP in Sepang.

The race was stopped on lap two when Simoncelli's bike veered across the track at turn 11 into the path of Colin Edwards and Valentino Rossi.

Matt Roberts BBC MotoGP presenter Read Steve Parrish's tribute to Simoncelli

The 24-year-old had his helmet knocked off and was hit by both other riders.
American rider Edwards also fell and dislocated his shoulder - while Simoncelli's fellow Italian Rossi was able to return to the pits.
Simoncelli lay motionless on the track after the impact, while the race was immediately red-flagged.
At first officials were looking to restart the race before the extent of Simoncelli's injuries became clear.
The race was cancelled amid confusion in the grandstand, with fans throwing bottles to show their initial displeasure.
The death is the first fatality in MotoGP since Japan's Daijiro Katoh died from injuries sustained at the 2003 Japanese GP while, last year, Japan's Shoya Tomizawa died in a similar crash to Simoncelli in a Moto2 race in San Marino.
Simoncelli's death comes a week after British IndyCar driver Dan Wheldon was killed in Las Vegas following a crash.
BBC MotoGP presenter Matt Roberts said: "Marco lost his helmet in the crash. The officials said that, when the track medics got to him, he was in cardiac arrest. They tried to resuscitate him in the ambulance and the medical centre.
"Both riders collided with him and the impact corresponded to him losing his helmet. The saddest thing is that Valentino [Rossi] and Marco were very close friends.
"Colin [Edwards] has a dislocated shoulder and is in a lot of pain. He and Valentino are absolutely devastated."
A MotoGP statement read: "On Sunday, 23 October, during the MotoGP race at the Sepang International Circuit, San Carlo Honda Gresini's Italian rider Marco Simoncelli suffered a serious accident wherein he sustained critical injuries.
"The race was stopped immediately with the red flag and Simoncelli was transported by ambulance to the circuit medical centre where the medical staff worked to resuscitate him.Simoncelli dies in Sepang crash
"Despite their efforts, Marco sadly succumbed to his injuries at 4.56pm local time [0956 BST].
"Everybody involved in MotoGP extends its deepest condolences to Marco's family, friends and team at this tragic loss."
And Sepang circuit chairman Mokhzani Mahathir added: "This is one-of-a-kind freak incident where the helmet came off and I am sure FIM [International Federation of Motorcycling] and MotoGP will be looking into this."
Honda rider Simoncelli entered MotoGP for the 2010 season and won his first pole position at the Catalunya race in June this year.
Simoncelli's first podium finish came in the Czech Republic in August when he finished third but he bettered that with a second-place finish at the Australian GP.
World champion Casey Stoner said: "As soon as I saw the footage it just makes you sick inside. Whenever the helmet comes off that's not a good sign."
British MotoGP rider Cal Crutchlow Tweeted: "RIP Marco Simoncelli! A great rider and all round nice guy. My thoughts are with all his family & friends. I will never forget today."
Australian Formula 1 driver Mark Webber Tweeted: "RIP Marco. A special talent that will be missed. Thinking of your loved ones and all the MotoGP paddock."

2011 Rugby World Cup final: New Zealand 8-7 France

Lock Brad Thorn celebrates New Zealand's victory at the final whistle

New Zealand were crowned world champions for the first time in 24 years after squeezing past an inspired France team by a single point.

Tony Woodcock's early try and a penalty from fourth-choice fly-half Stephen Donald were enough to see the All Blacks home in an extraordinary match that defied all pre-match predictions.
France produced their best performance of the tournament and appeared to be close to pulling off one of the great upsets after captain Thierry Dusatoir's try with half an hour remaining set up a nerve-shredding finale.
But Francois Trinh-Duc missed a long-range penalty before desperate defence saw the favourites hang on for a famous win.
The final whistle triggered scenes of wild jubilation at Eden Park as a nation celebrated a repeat of the outcome from the very first World Cup final in 1987.
And when skipper Richie McCaw hoisted the Webb Ellis trophy high into the night, a quarter of a century of hurt was blown away in an explosion of fireworks and cheering.
An already febrile atmosphere within the ground before the start had been stoked still further when France's players formed an arrow formation to face down the haka, and then advanced slowly over halfway as the capacity crowd roared.
The drama seemed to unsettle the players, both sides making early errors, and when Piri Weepu pulled a penalty badly wide the nerves began to spread to the stands.
With one well-worked line-out move they were soon silenced. Weepu put a penalty into the corner, Jerome Kaino took the ball off the top and popped it down into the arms of the advancing Woodcock to put the veteran prop through a gaping hole.
Weepu missed a simple conversion but France were rattled.
For all their good early work they found themselves on the end of some harsh decisions from referee Craig Joubert at the scrum and breakdown. With fly-half Morgan Parra forced off with a head injury the All Blacks began to dominate possession, only for Weepu to miss another straightforward penalty from 25 metres out.
The scrum-half's struggles meant the lead remained at just five points instead of a possible 13, and with half-time approaching the tide began to turn.
Fly-half Aaron Cruden hyper-extended his knee horribly in contact and was carried off the pitch, forcing Graham Henry to bring on Donald - a man who was fishing for whitebait a fortnight ago before injuries to Dan Carter and Colin Slade triggered his emergency call-up.
France's own stand-in stand-off Trinh-Duc missed with a drop-goal when well set but then set off on a curving run through a scattered defensive line which carried him deep into enemy territory until Weepu's desperate tap-tackle finally brought him down.
He had a chance to reduce the deficit to just two points only to slide a penalty from the left touchline across the face of the posts, and was then penalised by Joubert to give Donald the simplest of kicks for 8-0.
If some expected France to fold, Les Bleus had other ideas. Trinh-Duc gathered a poor kick from Weepu and sliced through the All Blacks line again, and although Dimitri Yachvili slipped with the line at his mercy the ball went wide, was recycled and put into the hands of skipper Dusautoir to slide in under the posts.
Dusautoir's try made it a tense final half-hour Eden Park was stunned, Trinh-Duc converting for 8-7 and the previously impregnable home side badly rattled.
France were transformed from the feeble, divided unit that had squeaked past Wales in the semi-final, their half-backs finding the corners with beautifully judged kicks from hand, the forwards making yards with every drive and a reorganised Kiwi line-out beginning to malfunction.
With 16 minutes left on the clock and the tension climbing through the roof, Trinh-Duc tried his luck with a penalty from just inside halfway only to push it wide, but the unthinkable now seemed a real possibility.
Replacement Damien Traille burgled a high ball from Israel Dagg and made good ground, the All Blacks scrum coming under increasing pressure and the crowd falling silent as their World Cup dream threatened to become a nightmare.
With the seconds slipping away and the gap just one point, France went through an 18-phase attack that made little ground but resulted in an attacking scrum on the New Zealand 10m line, only for the hosts to steal the ball back when Aurelien Rougerie was wrapped up.
The All Blacks drove upfield, using up the remaining moments, and when Joubert blew for another French infringement, the biggest party in New Zealand's history was under way.
New Zealand: Israel Dagg, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith, Ma'a Nonu, Richard Kahui, Aaron Cruden, Piri Weepu; Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu, Owen Franks, Sam Whitelock, Brad Thorn, Jerome Kaino, Richie McCaw (capt), Kieran Read.
Replacements: Stephen Donald (for Cruden, 34), Ali Williams (for Whitelock, 48), Andrew Hore (for Mealamu, 49), Andy Ellis (for Weepu, 49), Sonny Bill Williams (for Nonu, 76). Not used: Ben Franks, Adam Thomson.
France: Maxime Médard, Vincent Clerc, Aurélien Rougerie Maxime Mermoz, Alexis Palisson, Morgan Parra, Dimitri Yachvili; Jean-Baptiste Poux, William Servat, Nicolas Mas, Pascal Papé, Lionel Nallet, Thierry Dusautoir (capt), Julien Bonnaire, Imanol Harinordoquy.
Replacements: François Trinh-Duc (for Parra, 12-17, then 22), Damien Traille (for Clerc, 45), Dimitri Szarzewski (for Servat, 65), Fabien Barcella (for Poux, 65), Julien Pierre (for Pape, 70), Jean-Marc Doussain (for Yachvili, 76). Not used: Fulgence Ouedraogo
Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa)
Attendance: 60,000

Rugby World Cup 2011: France unchanged for Wales semi-final

Morgan Parra retains his place at fly-half with Francois Trinh-Duc on the bench

France coach Marc Lievremont has named an unchanged side to face Wales in Saturday's World Cup semi-final at Auckland's Eden Park.

Lievremont opted to stick with the same starting XV and bench which overcame England 19-12 in the quarter-final.
Francois Trinh-Duc steered Les Bleus to victory late on but he remains among the replacements with Morgan Parra again starting at fly-half.
It is the most experienced French side for four years, boasting 687 caps.
Eleven members of the side played in their 28-9 victory over Wales at the end of this year's Six Nations.
That is one of six victories by the French in the last seven meetings between the countries, the only exception when Warren Gatland's men won the Grand Slam in 2008.
France have lost at the semi-finals stage in the last two World Cups, both times at the hands of England.
But they are targeting their third final in the tournament, having lost to New Zealand in the inaugural event in 1987 and to Australia in 1999.
Lievremont's team has already played twice at Eden Park at this year's World Cup, losing 37-17 to the All Blacks before beating England in the quarter-final. Wales have yet to play there.
France team: Maxime Medard; Vincent Clerc, Aurelien Rougerie, Maxime Mermoz, Alexis Palisson; Morgan Parra, Dimitri Yachvili; Jean-Baptiste Poux, William Servat, Nicolas Mas, Pascal Pape, Lionel Nallet, Thierry Dusautoir (capt), Julien Bonnaire, Imanol Harinordoquy.
Replacements: Dimitri Szarzewski, Fabien Barcella, Julien Pierre, Louis Picamoles, Francois Trinh-Duc, David Marty, Cedric Heymans.

Rugby World Cup: NZ call up Gear & Donald for Muliaina & Slade

Gear (right) will replace the unfortunate Muliaina (left)

New Zealand have called up wing Hosea Gear and fly-half Stephen Donald as replacements for Mils Muliaina and Colin Slade.

Full-back Muliaina and number 10 Slade are out of the rest of the World Cup after suffering injuries during the 33-10 quarter-final win over Argentina.
Muliaina was forced off at half-time with a fractured shoulder on the occasion of his 100th cap.
Slade suffered a partial tear in his left adductor groin muscle.
It is a similar injury to the one that forced star fly-half Dan Carter out of the tournament.

Continue reading the main story

We've lost the first two blokes chosen and that's a setback, that's the reality of it

Graham Henry New Zealand coach

Slade stepped into the side after Carter's departure, but he in turn was forced off after half an hour against the Pumas, which brought third-choice Aaron Cruden into the fray.
Cruden is now set to start Sunday's semi-final against Australia, with Donald - who last played for the All Blacks as a replacement against Scotland in 2010 - likely to be on the bench.
Donald, 27, joined Bath after becoming frustrated by his lack of opportunities and missing out on the original World Cup squad.
"We've lost the first two blokes chosen and that's a setback, that's the reality of it," said head coach Graham Henry.
"We have a group of players who have been on standby. We didn't announce that group and we won't announce that.
"We've got less players here than overseas. Have we got the depth? We'll find out next week."
Despite the loss of his first two fly-halves, Henry was pleased on Sunday with the performance of 22-year-old Cruden, who has not played at Test level since last year and last took the field in the New Zealand domestic season, which ended more than a month ago.
"I think he did very well for a young guy who hasn't played a lot of Test match football," the coach added.
"He's got a lot of talent and he really enjoyed the experience. If you'd asked him a week or so ago whether he would be playing in a quarter-final of the Rugby World Cup he probably would have laughed at you."
Gear, 27, was a surprise omission from the original World Cup squad.
"Hosea was very close to getting in the squad initially...very very close, it was very tight," Henry added.

New Zealand switched centre Sonny Bill Williams to the wing against Argentina after injuries ruled out Israel Dagg, Richard Kahui and Zac Guildford.

The injury to 31-year-old Muliaina, who is moving to Japan after the World Cup, brings his All Black career to an end, having become the second player - after captain Richie McCaw - to win 100 caps for New Zealand.
"From today onwards, I will be a former All Black," Muliaina said on Monday, with tears in his eyes.
"It only sunk in that it was over about five minutes ago. I really wanted to have a finish in a couple of weeks' time but it is not to be. This is rugby. Last night I was on top of the world but it is like a roller coaster.
"Bitter disappointment... but I am particularly proud to be an All Black. I have enjoyed my time and met some amazing people."

Rugby World Cup 2011: Wales 22-10 Ireland

Shane Williams celebrates Wales' opening try

Wales crushed Ireland's dream and reached the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since 1987 with an impressive display in Wellington.

Wing Shane Williams squeezed over for Wales' early opener, Keith Earls responding in kind after the break.
But in-form scrum-half Mike Phillips' clever dive and centre Jonathan Davies' burst past prop Cian Healey settled the contest in Wales' favour.
Rhys Priestland added seven Welsh points to Ronan O'Gara's five.
Wales, led by outstanding flanker Sam Warburton, held off the challenge of an Ireland side that topped Pool C to book a semi-final meeting with France, who beat England 19-12 in Auckland.

Lock Luke Charteris epitomised the Welsh effort, making 16 tackles before being replaced by Bradley Davies at the break.
Whenever Ireland threatened, Wales seemed to have enough numbers and commitment to cope, other than when wing Earls made the most of his chance.
The Welsh line-out also stood up to the notable challenge of Paul O'Connell and Donncha O'Callaghan, while at the scrum Ireland were unable to repeat the effort that led to victory over Australia.
Jamie Roberts was again the focus of Welsh efforts with ball-in-hand and, with Priestland guiding their play and Phillips continuing a rich vein of form, Warren Gatland's side proved superior in midfield to the O'Gara-O'Driscoll axis on which Ireland have relied in the past decade.
Wing Williams extended his Welsh record try tally to 56 in the third minute as the Pool D runners-up began with an assurance that belied the occasion.
They patiently built a multi-phase attack in which Roberts took a high ball going forward before Halfpenny put Williams over in the right corner.
Video referee Giulio de Santis confirmed the score and Priestland converted from the wide angle.
Indiscipline and Ireland's ability to build pressure denied Wales the chance to capitalise on their good start.
In quick succession Faletau went over the top at a ruck, George North failed to roll away from a tackle and Dan Lydiate was caught offside at a breakdown but, instead of kicking for goal, the Irish settled for a series of attacking line-outs.
When Roberts eventually managed to put Wales on the front foot, O'Driscoll intercepted Phillips' pass to launch Ireland's best attack of the opening half, in which Gordon D'Arcy's dummy and run underlined the threat posed by Declan Kidney's side.
However, Shane Williams somehow managed to hold Sean O'Brien off the floor as the flanker crossed the line to deny Ireland a first try.
An O'Gara penalty finally got the Irish on the board after the Welsh again fell foul of the tackle laws but Halfpenny's long-range penalty restored Wales' seven-point advantage by the interval.

Ireland returned rejuvenated for the second period and drew level shortly after the restart when Stephen Ferris and Tommy Bowe combined to give Earls the time and space to cross at the corner, with O'Gara adding the conversion.
The scores were tied for only five minutes as Phillips stole away on the blindside after Alun Wyn Jones' drive to give Wales an advantage they would not surrender.
Priestland failed with the conversion and also saw a penalty rebound off the post, but Wales went further ahead when centre Davies made the most of Healey's appearance in the midfield defence to fend off the prop and burst clear to score.
The time, Priestland was able to add the conversion to put Wales 12 points ahead with 15 minutes remaining.
Ireland's attempt a response saw replacement scrum-half Eoin Reddan conjure a superb pass to O'Brien.
But the Irish flanker was halted three metres short and knocked on before Healey was penalised at the scrum, allowing Wales to clear.
Ireland threw all they had left at Wales in the closing stages, but the defence coached by Shaun Edwards proved equal to the task.
Wales: Leigh Halfpenny (Cardiff Blues); George North (Scarlets), Jonathan Davies (Scarlets), Jamie Roberts (Cardiff Blues), Shane Williams (Ospreys); Rhys Priestland (Scarlets), Mike Phillips (Bayonne); Gethin Jenkins (Cardiff Blues), Huw Bennett (Ospreys), Adam Jones (Ospreys), Luke Charteris (Dragons), Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys), Dan Lydiate (Dragons) Sam Warburton (Cardiff Blues, capt), Toby Faletau (Dragons).
Replacements: Bradley Davies (Cardiff Blues, for Charteris, 40), James Hook (Perpignan, for Priestland, 77).
Not used: Lloyd Burns (Dragons), Paul James (Ospreys), Ryan Jones (Ospreys), Lloyd Williams (Cardiff Blues), Scott Williams (Scarlets).
Ireland: Rob Kearney (Leinster); Tommy Bowe (Ospreys), Brian O'Driscoll (Leinster, capt), Gordon D'Arcy (Leinster), Keith Earls (Munster); Ronan O'Gara (Munster), Conor Murray (Munster); Cian Healy (Leinster), Rory Best (Ulster), Mike Ross (Leinster), Donncha O'Callaghan (Munster), Paul O'Connell (Munster), Stephen Ferris (Ulster), Sean O'Brien (Leinster), Jamie Heaslip (Leinster).
Replacements: Donncha Ryan (Munster, for Heaslip, 74), Denis Leamy (Munster, for Ferris, 74), Eoin Reddan (Leinster, for Murray, 55), Jonathan Sexton (Leinster, for O'Gara, 55), Andrew Trimble (Ulster, for Earls, 71).
Not used: Sean Cronin (Leinster), Tom Court (Ulster).
Referee: Craig Joubert (South Africa).
Assistant referees: Wayne Barnes (England), Romain Poite (France)
TMO: Giulio de Santis (Italy)

London 2012: LaShawn Merritt gets Olympic doping rule overturned

Merritt was given a two-year ban, later reduced to 21 months

LaShawn Merritt can defend his Olympic 400m title at London 2012 after winning an appeal against an International Olympic Committee doping rule.

The IOC's rule had barred any athlete who has received a doping suspension of more than six months from competing in the next summer or winter games.
Merritt, 25, argued the punishment went beyond World Anti-Doping Agency (Wada) sanctions of a maximum two-year ban.
The outcome could force British chiefs to re-think their regulations.

Manchester United's Phil Jones considered for England debut

Jones joined Manchester United from Blackburn in June

England arrive in Montenegro on Thursday for their final Euro 2012 qualifier with coach Fabio Capello considering a debut for Phil Jones.

The Manchester United defender, 19, could start alongside captain John Terry in central defence.
Everton's Phil Jagielka is in contention to play at right-back in place of the injured Chris Smalling.
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has pressed his claims to start alongside Scott Parker.
Lampard's stand-out performance in practice on Wednesday has opened up the possibility of Capello reverting to a 4-4-2 system and playing another striker alongside Wayne Rooney.
Jones has been a revelation at Old Trafford since his £16m move from Blackburn and won public approval from captain Terry after he trained alongside the teenager in Bulgaria last month.

Of the 18-man matchday squad for England's 1-0 win over Wales in September, only eight were in the party for the 2010 World Cup

Capello was pleased with the performances of Gary Cahill against Bulgaria and Wales but the Bolton man has been in a defence leaking goals at an alarming rate after he was the subject of interest from Arsenal and Tottenham before the transfer window closed.
The England boss may yet keep faith with Cahill but Jones is pushing hard for inclusion after continuing to impress the Italian.
Jones's Manchester United team-mate Smalling started against Bulgaria and Wales but has missed the trip to Montenegro with a groin injury.
Manchester City's Micah Richards and Tottenham's Kyle Walker will also be hoping to replace the former Fulham man, but Capello is an admirer of Jagielka and may go with the 29-year-old's experience in what is expected to be a hostile atmosphere at the City Stadium.

For latest updates and reaction to this story read Sportsday Live. Have your say on Twitter via the hashtag #bbcsportsday.

Rugby World Cup 2011: Ireland to make late call on Rory Best

Best was injured during Sunday's 36-6 victory over Italy

Ireland have included injury doubt Rory Best in their starting line-up as they name an unchanged team for the World Cup quarter-final against Wales.

Best injured his shoulder during the 36-6 Pool C win over Italy on Sunday.
The hooker's AC joint is responding well to treatment, but Sean Cronin is on standby if Best does not recover.
Ireland coach Declan Kidney, who has to submit a team 48 hours before kick-off, said: "The decision could go to the end, we'll make it when we have to."
The Irish are already without first-choice hooker Jerry Flannery, who tore a calf muscle in training ahead of the match against Australia in mid-September.
Kidney added Ulster player Best was making "great progress" but said: "I wouldn't want to tempt fate by rating Rory's chances, but he's not ruled out, which is always the first sign.

"He had a good day yesterday (Tuesday) which everyone was very positive about."

If Best is not fit to face the Welsh then Damien Varley will be named on the bench with Cronin in the starting XV.
Ronan O'Gara and Conor Murray retain their places at half-back after impressing during the comprehensive win over the Azzurri, with Jonathan Sexton and Eoin Reddan - who had started the tournament as the first-choice half-back pairing - on the bench.
Kidney said the battle for the outside-half and scrum-half spots was the "most competitive area" in the team.
"I know it's unconventional to use different half-backs at different times," said Kidney.
"When they've been on the pitch they've brought their own things to it.
"For example, Jonathan was hugely strong for us in defence in the last 10 minutes against Italy. Eoin robbed two great balls for us in the last 10-15 minutes.
"Leaving them out isn't easy, but Conor and Ronan have gone quite well for us."
Kidney believed Warren Gatland's men had added unpredictability to their attacking play, making them more dangerous opponents. "They're showing different trends in the way they play, but are more unpredictable than before," he said.
"If it was possible to read them before, it's more difficult now."
Ireland: R Kearney (Leinster); T Bowe (Ospreys), B O'Driscoll (Leinster, capt), G D'Arcy (Leinster), K Earls (Munster); R O'Gara (Munster), C Murray (Munster); C Healy (Leinster), R Best (Ulster) or S Cronin (Leinster), M Ross (Leinster), D O'Callaghan (Munster), P O'Connell (Munster), S Ferris (Ulster), S O'Brien (Leinster), J Heaslip (Leinster). Replacements: S Cronin (Leinster) or D Varley (Munster), T Court (Ulster), D Ryan (Munster), D Leamy (Munster), E Reddan (Leinster), J Sexton (Leinster), A Trimble (Ulster).

Rugby World Cup 2011: Fuimaono-Sapolu banned from playing

Fuimaono-Sapolu deleted tweets directed at Welsh referee Owens

Samoa centre Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu has been provisionally suspended from playing rugby after failing to attend a World Cup misconduct hearing.

He was charged by organisers for a Twitter rant, calling Welsh referee Nigel Owens "biased" and "racist".
Owens, who denied the claims, refereed Samoa's 13-5 loss to South Africa.
The hearing was adjourned and the Gloucester player provisionally banned from participating at any level of rugby, pending a hearing.
Samoa were eliminated from the tournament after their loss to the Springboks, which led Fuimaono-Sapolu to question the appointment of Owens.
Owens sent off Samoa full-back Paul Williams The 30-year-old, whose whereabouts is unknown, claimed Owens could not be neutral on the basis that Wales stood to benefit from a South Africa win.
A Rugby World Cup statement said Samoa Rugby Union had made "reasonable attempts" to inform the player of the charges he faced and added that any sanction against the union would be addressed during Fuimaono-Sapolu's hearing.
Fuimaono-Sapolu had escaped official punishment earlier in the tournament when he criticised organisers over Samoa's schedule, comparing their treatment to slavery, the holocaust and apartheid.
He later apologised for his choice of words but Samoa were warned action could be taken if there were any repeat.
Owens endured a difficult night on Friday, showing a red card to Samoa full-back Paul Williams late in the game for a clash with Heinrich Brussow.
The referee, who will take charge of the quarter-final match between New Zealand and Argentina on Sunday, responded on Facebook: "One thing I am not is racist and a cheat."
After the game the referee had tweeted: "That was the hardest game I have ever had to ref. Did my best and no regrets."

Rugby World Cup 2011: Fuimaono-Sapolu banned from playing

Fuimaono-Sapolu deleted tweets directed at Welsh referee Owens

Samoa centre Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu has been provisionally suspended from playing rugby after failing to attend a World Cup misconduct hearing.

He was charged by organisers for a Twitter rant, calling Welsh referee Nigel Owens "biased" and "racist".
Owens, who denied the claims, refereed Samoa's 13-5 loss to South Africa.
The hearing was adjourned and the Gloucester player provisionally banned from participating at any level of rugby, pending a hearing.
Samoa were eliminated from the tournament after their loss to the Springboks, which led Fuimaono-Sapolu to question the appointment of Owens.
Owens sent off Samoa full-back Paul Williams The 30-year-old, whose whereabouts is unknown, claimed Owens could not be neutral on the basis that Wales stood to benefit from a South Africa win.
A Rugby World Cup statement said Samoa Rugby Union had made "reasonable attempts" to inform the player of the charges he faced and added that any sanction against the union would be addressed during Fuimaono-Sapolu's hearing.
Fuimaono-Sapolu had escaped official punishment earlier in the tournament when he criticised organisers over Samoa's schedule, comparing their treatment to slavery, the holocaust and apartheid.
He later apologised for his choice of words but Samoa were warned action could be taken if there were any repeat.
Owens endured a difficult night on Friday, showing a red card to Samoa full-back Paul Williams late in the game for a clash with Heinrich Brussow.
The referee, who will take charge of the quarter-final match between New Zealand and Argentina on Sunday, responded on Facebook: "One thing I am not is racist and a cheat."
After the game the referee had tweeted: "That was the hardest game I have ever had to ref. Did my best and no regrets."

Rugby World Cup 2011: Fuimaono-Sapolu banned from playing

Fuimaono-Sapolu deleted tweets directed at Welsh referee Owens

Samoa centre Eliota Fuimaono-Sapolu has been provisionally suspended from playing rugby after failing to attend a World Cup misconduct hearing.

He was charged by organisers for a Twitter rant, calling Welsh referee Nigel Owens "biased" and "racist".
Owens, who denied the claims, refereed Samoa's 13-5 loss to South Africa.
The hearing was adjourned and the Gloucester player provisionally banned from participating at any level of rugby, pending a hearing.
Samoa were eliminated from the tournament after their loss to the Springboks, which led Fuimaono-Sapolu to question the appointment of Owens.
Owens sent off Samoa full-back Paul Williams The 30-year-old, whose whereabouts is unknown, claimed Owens could not be neutral on the basis that Wales stood to benefit from a South Africa win.
A Rugby World Cup statement said Samoa Rugby Union had made "reasonable attempts" to inform the player of the charges he faced and added that any sanction against the union would be addressed during Fuimaono-Sapolu's hearing.
Fuimaono-Sapolu had escaped official punishment earlier in the tournament when he criticised organisers over Samoa's schedule, comparing their treatment to slavery, the holocaust and apartheid.
He later apologised for his choice of words but Samoa were warned action could be taken if there were any repeat.
Owens endured a difficult night on Friday, showing a red card to Samoa full-back Paul Williams late in the game for a clash with Heinrich Brussow.
The referee, who will take charge of the quarter-final match between New Zealand and Argentina on Sunday, responded on Facebook: "One thing I am not is racist and a cheat."
After the game the referee had tweeted: "That was the hardest game I have ever had to ref. Did my best and no regrets."

Rugby World Cup 2011: Dan Carter injury rocks New Zealand

Carter shows the pain after suffering a groin injury in training

Star fly-half Dan Carter will miss New Zealand's final pool match against Canada on Sunday with a groin injury.

Carter was withdrawn from the side after pulling up during kicking practice in final training on Saturday.
The All Blacks will release a further injury bulletin on Sunday amid fears his participation in the rest of the World Cup may be in doubt.
Carter was due to lead the side against Canada after captain Richie McCaw also withdrew with a "niggly" foot problem.
Colin Slade will now start at number 10, with hooker Andrew Hore to captain the All Blacks for the first time. Andy Ellis comes onto the replacements bench.
"Carter will be further assessed this evening [Saturday] and an update will be given tomorrow," said an All Blacks statement. "No further updates will be given at this time."
McCaw's place in the side, meanwhile, will be taken by Victor Vito.
"It's a bit frustrating," said the flanker. "I was pretty keen to play, it was important for me and the team. I got through training on Friday fine but I woke up a bit sore."
McCaw underwent pre-season surgery in February to insert a small screw into a bone in his foot that had a stress fracture and missed the first six weeks of the Super 15 season.
After his comeback, the flanker was then sidelined in late May after suffering from recurring pain in his foot.

Rugby World Cup 2011: Dan Carter injury rocks New Zealand

Carter shows the pain after suffering a groin injury in training

Star fly-half Dan Carter will miss New Zealand's final pool match against Canada on Sunday with a groin injury.

Carter was withdrawn from the side after pulling up during kicking practice in final training on Saturday.
The All Blacks will release a further injury bulletin on Sunday amid fears his participation in the rest of the World Cup may be in doubt.
Carter was due to lead the side against Canada after captain Richie McCaw also withdrew with a "niggly" foot problem.
Colin Slade will now start at number 10, with hooker Andrew Hore to captain the All Blacks for the first time. Andy Ellis comes onto the replacements bench.
"Carter will be further assessed this evening [Saturday] and an update will be given tomorrow," said an All Blacks statement. "No further updates will be given at this time."
McCaw's place in the side, meanwhile, will be taken by Victor Vito.
"It's a bit frustrating," said the flanker. "I was pretty keen to play, it was important for me and the team. I got through training on Friday fine but I woke up a bit sore."
McCaw underwent pre-season surgery in February to insert a small screw into a bone in his foot that had a stress fracture and missed the first six weeks of the Super 15 season.
After his comeback, the flanker was then sidelined in late May after suffering from recurring pain in his foot.

Rugby World Cup 2011: Dan Carter injury rocks New Zealand

Carter shows the pain after suffering a groin injury in training

Star fly-half Dan Carter will miss New Zealand's final pool match against Canada on Sunday with a groin injury.

Carter was withdrawn from the side after pulling up during kicking practice in final training on Saturday.
The All Blacks will release a further injury bulletin on Sunday amid fears his participation in the rest of the World Cup may be in doubt.
Carter was due to lead the side against Canada after captain Richie McCaw also withdrew with a "niggly" foot problem.
Colin Slade will now start at number 10, with hooker Andrew Hore to captain the All Blacks for the first time. Andy Ellis comes onto the replacements bench.
"Carter will be further assessed this evening [Saturday] and an update will be given tomorrow," said an All Blacks statement. "No further updates will be given at this time."
McCaw's place in the side, meanwhile, will be taken by Victor Vito.
"It's a bit frustrating," said the flanker. "I was pretty keen to play, it was important for me and the team. I got through training on Friday fine but I woke up a bit sore."
McCaw underwent pre-season surgery in February to insert a small screw into a bone in his foot that had a stress fracture and missed the first six weeks of the Super 15 season.
After his comeback, the flanker was then sidelined in late May after suffering from recurring pain in his foot.

Rugby World Cup 2011 Pool D: South Africa 13-5 Samoa

Stowers scored Samoa's try as they ran South Africa close

South Africa secured top spot in Pool D with victory over a valiant Samoa side in a classic encounter in Auckland.

The Springboks led 13-0 courtesy of a Bryan Habana try, two kicks from Morne Steyn and one from namesake Frans.
But Samoa shook the defending champions to their boots after the break, George Stowers crossing for a try as an ageing South Africa side began to creak.
Even when Paul Williams was sent off, Samoa continued to throw caution to the wind, but South Africa held firm.
The Springboks' victory means Samoa's World Cup campaign is over, while Wales will finish second in the pool if they beat Fiji on Sunday.
Wales can lose in Hamilton and still qualify for the last eight if Fiji fail to score four tries or more against them and/or Wales pick up a losing bonus point.
South Africa will now play the runners-up in Pool C, likely to be Australia, although that could change if Italy cause an upset against Ireland.
If Wales progress, they will play the winners of Pool C, which will be Ireland so long as Declan Kidney's men beat Italy.
Peter de Villiers' South Africa, who narrowly defeated Wales in their World Cup opener, have now conceded only 24 points in four games, fewer than any other team.
And while the Springboks looked like an over-the-hill side at times during their 17-16 win over Wales and pulsating victory over Samoa, their tactical nous, set-piece strength and defensive rigour means few would bet against them reaching a second successive final.

In a frantic opening, Springboks fly-half Morne Steyn saw an early drop-goal attempt drift past the right upright before Frans Steyn struck the bar with a penalty attempt from inside his own half.

However, Habana made South Africa's possession tell after eight minutes, crossing for a try in the left-hand corner after an extended stay in the Samoa half. Morne Steyn kicked the extras.
Spurred on by a partisan crowd at North Harbour Stadium, Samoa continued to put in the big hits, with Ospreys number eight Stowers involved in one almighty collision with Springboks hooker Bismark du Plessis.
Tempers flared when Samoa skipper Mahonri Schwalger received a slap from Jannie du Plessis at a ruck, and the South Africa prop was lucky not to receive a yellow card.
Shortly after, Frans Steyn nailed a long-range three-pointer from wide right on the halfway line before namesake Morne slotted a penalty from bang in front as Samoa came under pressure in the scrum.
The defending champions lived up to their reputation as a formidably functional side in the first half, defending robustly and kicking for goal at every opportunity - Frans Steyn nearly knocked over one penalty attempt from inside his own 10m line.
However, Samoa continued to probe for openings and their industry very nearly paid off on the stroke of half-time when scrum-half Kahn Fotuali'i burst down the short side and fed inside to Seilala Mapusua, only for the hulking centre to be hunted down.
And after 51 minutes the crowd was sent into raptures when Stowers burst over for a try following nice hands from Gloucester centre Eliota Fuimaono Sapolu. Tusi Pisi missed the conversion to leave his side trailing by eight points.
A few minutes later, Frans Steyn missed a penalty attempt from the left touch-line before Samoa wing David Lemi went slashing through the South African defence and would have scored were it not for a fine tackle from full-back Pat Lambie.
South Africa hit back immediately, Bismarck du Plessis lunging for the line only to be held up short, before Frans Steyn coughed up the ball under the posts under some heavy tackling.
Samoa's Williams was dismissed for striking Brussow Lemi then went on a dart down the right before Sapolu stepped his way through the rattled Springboks defence, the vital tackle coming from Pietersen.
Shortly after, the dazzling Sapolu very nearly unpicked the South Africa defence again before Mahonri Schwalger reached for the line and lost the ball in contact, allowing the Springboks to clear their lines.
With 12 minutes remaining, Samoa full-back Williams was sent off for striking Springboks blind-side Heinrich Brussow following an altercation at a ruck. But two minutes later it was 14 against 14 when Springboks substitute John Smit was sin-binned for a deliberate knock-on.
The final 10 minutes were a torrid, rollercoaster affair. First, Samoa replacement Joe Tekori went on a charge down the middle before Springboks substitute Jean de Villiers stole the ball and stepped his way through the Samoa defence.
Samoa kept coming, so that the Springboks were tottering when the final whistle went. And while Samoa's World Cup is over, they can be tremendously proud of a performance that was full of physicality, ambition and skill.
South Africa: Lambie, Pietersen, Fourie, F. Steyn, Habana, M. Steyn, du Preez, Mtawarira, B. du Plessis, J. du Plessis, Rossouw, Matfield, Brussow, Burger, Spies.
Replacements: Hougaard for Habana (47), Steenkamp for Mtawarira (62), Smit for B. du Plessis (69), Alberts for Spies (61).
Not Used: van der Linde, Louw, de Villiers.
Sin bin: Smit (70).
Samoa: Williams, Lemi, Mapusua, Fuimaono-Sapolu, Tuilagi, T. Pisi, Fotuali'i, Taulafo, Schwalger, Johnston, Leo, Thompson, Tuifua, Fa'asavalu, Stowers.
Replacements: Mulipola for Taulafo (77), Avei for Schwalger (77), Perenise for Johnston (60), Tekori for Leo (60), Treviranus for Tuifua (73).
Not Used: Poluleuligaga, G. Pisi.
Sent off: Williams (70).
Ref: Nigel Owens (Wales).

Rugby World Cup 2011: England and Scotland make changes for key tie

Recalled captain Alastair Kellock will lead the line for Scotland against England

England have made three changes and Scotland six to their starting line-ups for their crucial World Cup Group B match in Auckland on Saturday.

For England, Delon Armitage replaces Mark Cueto on the left wing with Matt Stevens and Courtney Lawes also picked.
Scotland, who must win for a realistic hope of advancing, see captain Alastair Kellock return at second row and Euan Murray at tighthead prop.
Richie Vernon, Mike Blair, Simon Danielli and Joe Ansbro are also in.
The Scotland side also sees Sean Lamont moves to inside centre, with Jim Hamilton, Geoff Cross, Kelly Brown, Rory Lawson, Graeme Morrison and Nick De Luca the players to make way.
The England changes, despite the dropping of Cueto who scored a hat-trick as England beat Romania 67-3 in their previous match, had been widely predicted. Stevens replaces Alex Corbisieroto at loose-head prop having recovered from injury and Lawes takes Tom Palmer's place in the second row after serving a two-match ban.
"We're reasonably healthy which is great at this point in the tournament and we thought this was the right team," manager Martin Johnson said.
Of the decision to pick Armitage over Cueto - who drops out of the 22 - Johnson added: "We've said all the way through if Delon's playing well and with form he's a Test player.
"Mark's injury was a factor [he had a back problem earlier in the tournament]. He's probably a game short of being back to where he should be."
However, while England need only a losing bonus point to be all-but certain of progressing, Scotland need a clear victory to guarantee their own place in the quarter-finals, a requirement seemingly reflected in coach Andy Robinson's bold selection.

Continue reading the main story Full World Cup tablesKellock was omitted from the team to play Argentina, despite being named tournament captain in August and comes in for Hamilton, who has been struggling with a knee injury.Now scrum-half Lawson, the captain against Georgia and Argentina, must face up to being outside the matchday 22, with Blair preferred for the Edinburgh number nine.Vernon replaces Brown at the back of the scrum and Murray, who performed well against Georgia, is back in for Cross in the front row after being unavailable for last Sunday's match in Wellington because of his religious beliefs.Behind the scrum Lamont switches from the wing to inside centre, while Danielli takes Lamont's place on the wing, with Ansbro joining the Scarlets back in the midfield.BBC rugby correspondent Ian Robertson suggested the changes were made to inject more pace into the team."It's a risk but it's a very bold selection," he said on BBC Radio 5 live."What Andy Robinson says is that they have gone for real speed. He has always had this team in mind for the England game knowing he wants to play the game at pace."It is a gamble but Scotland have got to be brave. They've got to win and win by eight points and 1986 was the last time they managed that."The permutations for the match are complex but if Scotland lose by more than seven points - hence failing to gain a losing bonus point - they are out of the World Cup. However Robinson insisted they would still have to play a patient game, adding: "We can't go on the pitch and chase the game, we've got to build ourselves into the game."We're not playing Argentina, we're playing England. It's a completely different game."We've got to get the scoreboard moving right at the start of the game, but play what's in front of us and not get concerned about the scoreboard."The meeting will be the first time in 129 matches and 140 years the teams have played on neutral soil.England team:B Foden; C Ashton, M Tuilagi, M Tindall, D Armitage; J Wilkinson, B Youngs; M Stevens, S Thompson, D Cole, L Deacon, C Lawes, T Croft, L Moody (capt), J Haskell.Replacements: D Hartley, A Corbisiero, T Palmer, N Easter, R Wigglesworth, T Flood, M Banahan.Scotland team:
C Paterson; M Evans, J Ansbro, S Lamont, S Danielli; R Jackson, M Blair; A Jacobsen, R Ford, E Murray, R Gray, A Kellock (capt), A Strokosch , J Barclay, R Vernon.
Replacements:S Lawson, A Dickinson, N Hines, R Rennie, C Cusiter, D Parks, N De Luca.

Manchester City's Carlos Tevez denies refusing to play

Tevez was pictured leaving the Allianz Arena and getting on the team coach

Manchester City striker Carlos Tevez has denied refusing to play against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.

Tevez angered manager Roberto Mancini by seemingly not wanting to come on during the second half of the 2-0 loss.
Mancini claimed the Argentine would never play for him at City again, but Tevez has responded by saying he has "always given [his] best".
Tevez added: "There was some confusion on the bench and I believe my position may have been misunderstood."

"I would like to apologise to all Manchester City fans, with whom I have always had a strong relationship, for any misunderstanding that occurred in Munich," he went on.

"They understand that when I am on the pitch I have always given my best for the club. In Munich on Tuesday I had warmed up and was ready to play.
"This is not the right time to get into specific details as to why this did not happen. But I wish to state that I never refused to play.
"Going forward I am ready to play when required and to fulfil my obligations."

City are next in action on Saturday when they play at Blackburn.

Mancini wanted to bring on substitute Tevez with 35 minutes left in an attempt to claw back the two-goal deficit.
But after the 27-year-old appeared to refuse to play, Mancini said: "If I have my way he will be out. He's finished with me.
"If we want to improve as a team Carlos can't play with us. With me, he is finished."
Speaking to BBC Sport, Richard Cramer, a specialist sports lawyer at FrontRow Legal commented: "There is a set procedure within a player's contract, usually consisting of firstly a written warning, then a final written warning and then the final act.
"What we don't know is if Tevez is subject to ongoing disciplinary proceedings. But if it is true that he refused to play yesterday that borders on gross misconduct which would entitle City to sack him."
The incident in the Champions League Group A match appeared to be sparked by the substitution of striker Edin Dzeko.
Dzeko showed his anger at the change, shaking his head at Mancini as Nigel de Jong replaced him.

He [Tevez] refuses to go in," Mancini said. "He refused to come on the pitch. What I said to Carlos is between me, him and the team [but] I am really disappointed because it is Carlos. I decide the changes.

"It's a bad situation - it's important for a player to help the team. [The situation] is impossible."
In the immediate aftermath of the match, Tevez, speaking through a translator, did not address his decision not to play.
"I think it's Mancini's decision. I've been a professional throughout," he told Sky Sports.
"I put my opinion, through, that I wanted to leave for family reasons and I still played my best."
Tevez has agitated for a move away from City twice in the past year, submitting a transfer request (which was later withdrawn) in December before, in July, asking for a move in order to be closer to his two daughters in his Argentina.

Archive: Tevez vows never to return to Manchester (June 2011)

A proposed £40m switch to Corinthians fell through in the summer as time ran out to complete the transfer before the Brazilian deadline.
In a statement explaining the deal's collapse, Sao Paulo club hinted that the deal could be revived, stating "we look forward to him being with us in the near future."
Tevez finished joint top-scorer in the Premier League last season with 20 goals, but was stripped of the City captaincy for the new campaign and appears to have slipped to fourth-choice striker at Etihad Stadium.
The former Manchester United and West Ham player was an unused substitute in Saturday's 2-0 win over Everton as Mancini opted to replace Dzeko with Mario Balotelli.
Gordon Taylor, the chief executive of the Professional Footballers' Association, told BBC Radio 5 live: "There have been mixed messages for some time. They [Mancini and Tevez] are human beings and emotions run high, but clearly things aren't right.
"They've got to get round the table and sort it out, it's unsatisfactory at the moment. It's happened before with players. The two have contrasting temperaments.
"Sometimes positions get entrenched, and that seems to be the situation here."

Joe Hart explains that Tevez is not an outcast at Man City (23 September)

Troy Cooley is interim Australia coach for South Africa

Cooley (left) has worked extensively with Australia's seam bowlers

Australia have named ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley as interim head coach for their forthcoming tour of South Africa - but he will not be applying to fill the role permanently.

Tim Nielsen resigned as head coach last week after four years in the role.
Cooley, 45, began working with England's pacemen in 2003 and helped them to win the Ashes in 2005 before returning to his homeland a year later.
He is currently head coach at Cricket Australia's centre of excellence.
Cooley said: "I feel excited and comfortable coming into this 'caretaker's role'.
"My immediate task will be to come up to speed with their plans and work with the players and support team to ensure the preparation is spot on for a successful tour."
As well as coaching, he will also be an acting national selector for the South Africa tour, which begins on 13 October with the first of two Twenty20 internationals, followed by three one-day internationals and two Test matches.
Cooley began his coaching career with Tasmania, but was widely credited with helping England's fast bowlers such as Andrew Flintoff and Simon Jones master reverse swing in the lead-up to the 2005 Ashes.
He has since filled a number of roles for the Australia national side, starting as bowling coach but also serving as assistant coach, standing in for Nielsen for part of the one-day series in England in 2009, and coach of Australia A in Zimbabwe earlier this year.

Troy Cooley is interim Australia coach for South Africa

Cooley (left) has worked extensively with Australia's seam bowlers

Australia have named ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley as interim head coach for their forthcoming tour of South Africa - but he will not be applying to fill the role permanently.

Tim Nielsen resigned as head coach last week after four years in the role.
Cooley, 45, began working with England's pacemen in 2003 and helped them to win the Ashes in 2005 before returning to his homeland a year later.
He is currently head coach at Cricket Australia's centre of excellence.
Cooley said: "I feel excited and comfortable coming into this 'caretaker's role'.
"My immediate task will be to come up to speed with their plans and work with the players and support team to ensure the preparation is spot on for a successful tour."
As well as coaching, he will also be an acting national selector for the South Africa tour, which begins on 13 October with the first of two Twenty20 internationals, followed by three one-day internationals and two Test matches.
Cooley began his coaching career with Tasmania, but was widely credited with helping England's fast bowlers such as Andrew Flintoff and Simon Jones master reverse swing in the lead-up to the 2005 Ashes.
He has since filled a number of roles for the Australia national side, starting as bowling coach but also serving as assistant coach, standing in for Nielsen for part of the one-day series in England in 2009, and coach of Australia A in Zimbabwe earlier this year.

Troy Cooley is interim Australia coach for South Africa

Cooley (left) has worked extensively with Australia's seam bowlers

Australia have named ex-England bowling coach Troy Cooley as interim head coach for their forthcoming tour of South Africa - but he will not be applying to fill the role permanently.

Tim Nielsen resigned as head coach last week after four years in the role.
Cooley, 45, began working with England's pacemen in 2003 and helped them to win the Ashes in 2005 before returning to his homeland a year later.
He is currently head coach at Cricket Australia's centre of excellence.
Cooley said: "I feel excited and comfortable coming into this 'caretaker's role'.
"My immediate task will be to come up to speed with their plans and work with the players and support team to ensure the preparation is spot on for a successful tour."
As well as coaching, he will also be an acting national selector for the South Africa tour, which begins on 13 October with the first of two Twenty20 internationals, followed by three one-day internationals and two Test matches.
Cooley began his coaching career with Tasmania, but was widely credited with helping England's fast bowlers such as Andrew Flintoff and Simon Jones master reverse swing in the lead-up to the 2005 Ashes.
He has since filled a number of roles for the Australia national side, starting as bowling coach but also serving as assistant coach, standing in for Nielsen for part of the one-day series in England in 2009, and coach of Australia A in Zimbabwe earlier this year.