HOOKER RORY Best is still hopeful he can play in Saturday’s quarter-final against Wales after making “great progress” in his rehabilitation from a shoulder injury. Best did some light training yesterday including lineout throwing.

“The decision could go right to the end, we’ll make it when we have to make it,” said Declan Kidney. “I wouldn’t want to tempt fate by rating Rory’s chances, but he’s not ruled out which is always the first sign. He had a good day yesterday which everyone was very positive about. He’s making great progress and we’re taking it one day at a time.”