Rugby World Cup Quick Hits: New Zealand to ease past Uruguay

• New Zealand send out warning

• Uruguay off mark with win

• All Blacks to end pool stage in style

New Zealand v Uruguay
Thursday, 20:00
Live on ITV4

All Blacks show ruthless edge

New Zealand were slow to the party but the All Blacks sent out a message to their rivals with a demolition job against Italy. There was no stopping New Zealand as they trounced their opponents 96-17 in Lyon. Scrum-half Aaron Smith scored three of their 14 tries in a ruthless attacking performance.

It was a much-needed display from New Zealand after falling to a first pool stage defeat at a World Cup in their opener against France. The All Blacks looked close to their best against Italy and it was a significant result, with a probable quarter-final with Ireland on the horizon.

Uruguay were made to work hard for their 36-26 victory over Namibia. It was a deserved reward, following their creditable performances against Italy and France. Uruguay will need though to step up a level to avoid a hefty defeat in their first match against the All Blacks.

New Zealand only needed 22 minutes to notch the try bonus point in their mauling of Italy and this is an ominous sign for their final pool game. The All Blacks will want to wrap up maximum points quickly and freshen up the squad with a huge knockout tie looming.

The All Blacks' destruction of Italy is a warning side to the other challengers for the tournament and spells trouble for Uruguay. Scoring a combined 167 points in their last two matches, New Zealand have a potent attack and Uruguay are likely to be exposed.

A handicap of 66 points should be within their sights and they can cover this at [10/11], to sign off the pool stage with confidence.

Who will win the Rugby World Cup? Latest betting odds

South Africa are joint favourites at 3/14.00 with Ireland to win the World Cup. France and New Zealand are both just behind them at 10/34.33 in the outright betting.

There is a significant gap to the next team, with England available at 11/112.00. Wales have shortened to 19/120.00 in the outright betting following their emphatic win over Australia, with Fiji and Argentina available at 35/136.00.

Follow Simon's bets on Twitter @watfordtipster