Welsh get boost of full squad

Wales are on course to have a fully-fit squad – including Jonathan Davies and Dan Biggar – for next Sunday’s quarter-final against France.

Centre Davies has been recovering from a knee injury, while fly-half Biggar followed head injury assessment return-to-play protocols after going off during the victory over Fiji.

Neither was considered for Wales’ fourth successive Pool D win – a 35-13 verdict against Uruguay in Kumamoto – but they are recovering well, along with George North, who has had an ankle knock.

“Jonathan Davies had a scan and it came back clear, which is really positive for us,” Wales head coach Warren Gatland said. “Initially, we were a bit worried.

“Dan is going through his protocols, and he had a scan as well. We’ve spoken to consultants from World Rugby about him, and he’s spoken to the consultant as well.

“They are pleased with the progress he’s making, so hopefully he will be fine. George had a slight ankle injury, but he is going to be OK.”

Japan’s win over Scotland means Ireland will face back-to-back world champions New Zealand in the quarterfinals on Saturday in Tokyo.

Ireland beat Samoa 47-5 on Saturday and, asked for the key to beating the All Blacks, prop Tadgh Furlong replied: “Hard work, really. They are so dangerous.

“You can’t switch off, at all. So it’s just working really hard and staying switched on mentally because they can make something out of nothing with some of the players they have.

“I suppose there’s an element of just being physical. It’s the same any rugby game you play but as a front five forward, it’s all about being as physical as you can and hopefully coming out on top.”