The IRB and referee Craig Joubert have proudly performed a near flawless coronation ceremony of New Zealand as world champions.
On a glourious Sunday night in Eden Park, the All Blacks were guided towards the 2011 World Cup title in an exciting coronation ceremony in which the illusion of a genuine contest was presented to millions of armchair fans around the world.
There was only one minor hitch during the ceremony when, possibly out of nerves, Joubert accidently penalised New Zealand captain Richie McCaw for an infringement. The incredulous look on McCaw’s face spoke volumes of the flanker’s displeasure. However, normal service was resumed and the rest of the ceremony passed without incident.
