When news filtered through that Dan Carter had injured his groin during a routine kicking drill and was ruled out of the tournament, the nation was gripped in panic.
But Piri Weepu proved to be the saviour on what proved a difficult night in Auckland against Argentina. The former Hurricanes' halfback was nerveless on the night and knocked over seven penalties as New Zealand struggled to break down the stern Pumas' resistance.
The halfback duties were shared between Weepu, Jimmy Cowan and Andy Ellis in the pool stages, but there is no question who the No 1 halfback is now. Weepu was integral in New Zealand's dismantling of the Wallabies and contributed four penalties in the 20-6 victory.
Players of the Rugby World Cup:
Sean O'Brien (Ireland)
Sam Warburton (wales)
Israel Dagg (New Zealand)
