Lewsey out of Rugby World Cup final

England winger Josh Lewsey has been ruled out of the Rugby World Cup final with a hamstring strain.

Lewsey, 30, who scored England's try in the 14-9 semi-final victory over France on Saturday, suffered the injury to his right leg just before half-time.

A scan has confirmed Lewsey had suffered a grade one strain and he will miss England's clash with South Africa on Saturday.

Coach Brian Ashton is also waiting for news on the fitness of veteran centre Mike Catt who is nursing a groin strain.

Ashton knows his rejuvenated England side must stub out the likes of Bryan Habana in Saturday's Rugby World Cup final if they are to have any chance of becoming the first nation to retain the Webb Ellis trophy.

England have surprised Australia in the quarter-finals and hosts France in the semi-finals.

But South Africa, who eased past Argentina 37-19 to reach the final, are sure to pose England with another stiff examination at the Stade de France.

Ashton, who has masterminded one of sport's greatest-ever comebacks and is set to be rewarded with a new contract, has insisted his men will give their all.

He said: "I can't imagine this group of players would ever be satisfied just by getting to the final. They want to create history."

And Wilkinson, who landed a vital penalty and a drop-goal to see England past France, added: "We'll just go in with the same attitude, dig deep, stick together and give it our best shot."

England, who enjoyed wins both in South Africa and at Twickenham prior to their 2003 World Cup triumph, have lost their last four meetings with South Africa.

© Independent Television News Limited 2007. All rights reserved.

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