Mumm wants to play his part

Former Exeter Chiefs captain Dean Mumm is hoping to play a part for Australia in Saturday's Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand at Twickenham – and he is also refusing to acknowledge that his country are bound to be the underdogs against their nearest and biggest rivals.

The All Blacks are the overwhelming favourites to retain their title, and they have won nine of their last ten games against the Wallabies.

Mumm, who made a positive impact after being thrust into battle as a replacement during the second half of last Sunday's 29-15 semi-final win over Argentina at Twickenham, is adamant that his side have a chance of toppling New Zealand, however.

"It's a World Cup. History, past form, is irrelevant going into this game," the lock, who left Sandy Park in May to rejoin Sydney-based New South Wales Waratahs, told the Australian media.

"We're going to focus entirely on what we're going to do," Mumm added. "It has been a solid journey and one we're not entirely finished with. We're very, very excited to be in the final."

Mumm also revealed his relief at getting past the obstacle presented by Argentina, who had shocked Ireland in the last eight to set up their semi-final appointment with Australia.

"Their performance against Ireland the week before was probably one of the more comprehensive performances we've seen this tournament, and they came at us on Sunday," Mumm said.

"I think we did right early to get the points on the board, but Argentina are a team that didn't give up and they've got a lot of belief in what they do, and rightly so. They're a vastly improving side, and they're now one of the better teams in the world."