New Zealand's Sevens 'eighth' man under investigation

New Zealand's Ardie Savea celebrates a try against Scotland during the Wellington Sevens tournament, at Westpac Stadium, in January 2016

World Rugby said Sunday it was investigating an apparent rule breach by the New Zealand team fielding eight players in the lead-up to their try which clinched a draw with Australia at the Sydney Sevens tournament. Television replays showed that New Zealand had one extra player on the field in the final stages of their Pool A match against Australia on Saturday. Ardie Savea scored after the full-time siren to grab New Zealand a 17-17 draw with hosts Australia. The All Blacks trailed 17-5 at half-time and 17-12 into the final seconds before Savea streaked away to score under the crossbar for a converted try to clinch the draw. World Rugby said in accordance with its rules, the match result would stand, but the ruling body added in a statement that it was reviewing the matter to determine if any disciplinary action was warranted. New Zealand took top spot in Pool A on points differential with their controversial draw and went into Sunday's quarter-finals where they defeated the United States 24-7. Australia needed extra time to overcome England 17-12 to reach the semi-finals of the World Series event.