New Zealand All Black Anton Oliver last night spoke of his regret and shock after becoming the first player to fail a drugs test in Rugby World Cup history.

The 24-year-old Otago hooker tested positive for pseudo-ephedrine and has been severely reprimanded by a three-man World Cup judicial committee that met yesterday.

Pseudo-ephedrine is commonly prescribed for head colds and blocked ears as an over-the-counter medicine. Oliver, one of 300 players already tested at World Cup '99, had been taking tablets for a sinus problem and an ear infection. His medication was prescribed by All Blacks team doctor John Mayhew and a urine sample was provided by the New Zealand pack leader last Saturday morning.

Oliver is free to play in Sunday's Pool B clash against Tonga in Bristol.

UTV have confirmed that they will show all three of Ireland's forthcoming World Cup matches live. ITV had taken a decision only to broadcast the Ireland-Australia match live but the Ulster affiliate has confirmed that they are to cover all three.

Australia's World Cup preparations have been dealt a blow with news that former Argentinian prop Patrick Norriega could miss the whole tournament with a damaged shoulder.