World Rugby have confirmed that Richie McCaw will not be cited for the incident with South Africa's Francois Louw in the 22nd minute of Saturday's semi-final at Twickenham.

Having studied the footage, it was established that McCaw’s hip made contact with Louw’s shoulder.

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen had earlier vigorously defended his skipper.

“There is nothing in it, so there’s nothing to talk about. Everyone has got a bit excited, and we move on.

“He (McCaw) is a man that draws a lot of attention because he’s been a great player, maybe the greatest player in the history of the game.

“If he is not in your team, he’s a pain in the rear end, so it goes that if you can’t get him on the track let’s get him off the track.

“It’s a mark of respect, really. He takes it in his stride, and the team takes it in their stride.”