Ponga-inspired New Zealand reach World Cup final

Just 23 days after breaking his arm, Kalyn Ponga returned to inspire New Zealand to a 34-10 victory in a pulsating encounter with Tonga as they reached their first World Cup final since 2013. Ponga had been named initially in reserve and then as one of the interchange players in the build-up to this contest - and the expectation was that he would be eased back into action and play a limited role.

Ponga's impact from full-back was almost immediate as he sent Briton Nikora over in the right corner inside four minutes. He was also involved in the Kiwis' second try of the game - as his contest with his opposite number Lehi Hopoate was crucial to Dane Gagai grounding the ball.

And while the swirling wind made conditions almost unplayable at times, he repeatedly gathered high kicks and made several telling defensive contributions. Tonga's traditional war dance, the Sipi Tau, was met by New Zealand's Haka and a long stand-off between the players provided the perfect backdrop to a contest brimming with athleticism, power and superb ball-handling skills.