The controversial Gilbert Synergie ball being used at this year's Rugby World Cup has received the thumbs up from the IRB following an investigation into its performance by the manufacturers.
The ball was specifically designed to deliver the same kicking performance as the Xact ball used in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, whilst offering improved handling but players such as New Zealand's Dan Carter and England's Jonny Wilkinson had questioned the ball and those used in training.
In a statement released to the media today the IRB said, "Data commissioned from a leading independent sports statistics provider proves that the objective has been achieved in the tournament to date, with kicking success on a par with 2003 and superb handling and improved offloading from the tackle much in evidence.
"Although no official complaint had been made by any of the participating teams, RWC Limited requested that Gilbert investigate some comments received from New Zealand questioning the quality of the balls used in practice.
"Extensive research, comprising laboratory and on-field tests, discussion with players and administrators and a thorough analysis of logistics has enabled the ball manufacturer to prove without reservation that there is no difference between any of the balls used throughout the tournament nor with the Gilbert synergie balls widely used in International matches since October 2006."
As a result the IRB said, "It has been concluded that any perceived differences reported can be explained by incorrect inflation and natural wear and tear, and this has been explained to the teams."
Chairman of Rugby World Cup, Dr Syd Miller, stated "I commend Gilbert on their rapid response to our questions and the thoroughness of their research, which has left no stone unturned.
"This proves conclusively that the decision to select Gilbert, and more particularly the synergie ball, for RWC 2007 was the correct one. Gilbert have been making balls since the game was first invented and have now supplied balls for four successive World Cups. They know what they are doing".
Gilbert Sales & Marketing Director, Richard Gray, commented, "We were taken aback by the comments made and the subsequent damaging media coverage - which had no basis whatsoever. Of course it is sometimes more difficult to adapt to a ball if you have been used to a different product and this perhaps explains the contrast between a few comments from some quarters and the actual kicking performances overall throughout the tournament.
"We are delighted but not surprised that RWC Limited have accepted our findings without reservation and have once again given their stamp of approval to our products. We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of the quarter finalists the best of luck and look forward to a feast of rugby over the next few weeks."