RUGBY: Referees have been instructed to enforce a new "zero-tolerance policy" toward stamping and back-chat - starting with today's clash between Wales and Australia at the Millennium Stadium.

The directive, which has come from the International Rugby Board, effectively demands straight red cards for players seen by officials to stamp or trample on opponents.

The IRB's referee's manager Paddy O'Brien said: "Referees have been informed to take strong action against the inappropriate use of feet on bodies.

"The game has a proud history of fair play and respect and the IRB is determined that such characteristics are maintained. This policy is being communicated to all IRB member unions."

Referees will also be free to send players to the sinbin who continually argue with officials, attempt to influence decisions, or indulge in "sledging" or foul language.

"The decision was taken to implement a zero-tolerance policy to curtail this growing trend," said O'Brien. "Referees will penalise teams through means such as free-kicks, penalties and even yellow cards. This includes players attempting to influence decision-making and appeals to touch judges.

"The message has to be clear. Back-chat and arguing with a match official will not be tolerated, nor will any attempt to slow down the match through questioning the referee."

Captains may still request an explanation for decisions from a referee but, according to O'Brien, "not every one".

Meanwhile, Dan Carter will start New Zealand's clash with England at Twickenham tomorrow after outhalf Nick Evans failed a fitness test yesterday afternoon.

The English RFU last night emphatically rejected claims made by All Blacks centre Aaron Mauger that New Zealand players suffered racist abuse from spectators during last season's Twickenham clash against England.

Mauger's allegations appeared prominently in the New Zealand media yesterday."It seemed to be the Island guys who got picked on", said the Canterbury centre.

The RFU though, issued a swift dismissal of Mauger's reported remarks. "No allegations of any racist abuse were made during or after that game, and it is puzzling why they have now been made a year later, said chief executive Francis Barron.

Wales are full of confidence for today's Test against an experimental Australia XV in Cardiff where the Welsh will be hoping to repeat last November's win.