Rugby union and league dominate the front pages of the newspapers on Monday.
NZ Herald
The New Zealand Herald splits its front between league and union under the overall heading "day of heartbreak".
The Warriors get the lead slot with a picture of shattered fullback Kevin Locke after their NRL grand final loss to Manly. The paper's report begins: "Fortune doesn't always favour the brave, sometimes it chooses the tough instead".
The Herald also speaks to the mother of injured All Black Daniel Carter, Bev Carter, who broke down in tears as she told the reporter that she'd been unable to get a plane to go to Wellington to console her son.
Waikato Times
The Waikato Times devotes its entire front page to the news on Carter. Hamilton mechanic Guy Middleton sums up the fans' feelings this way: "I am absolutely devastated, it's like a death in the family, but I still think we can definitely win it."
The paper has an interview with the player's father, Neville Carter, who says he's "gutted to be honest", but says people have to remain positive and continue to get behind the team.
Dominion Post
The Dominion Post also has only one story on its front - Dan Carter.
It says his withdrawal is a blow to the New Zealand campaign and could cost the country the tournament.
The paper quotes fellow All Black Ali Williams as saying "it sucks".
TAB bookie Mark Stafford says he is sticking with the hosts to win the Cup for now.
The Press
The Press also devotes considerable space to the news on Carter. A column by Richard Knowler begins: "This was worse than a hangover from hell. Far worse. Waking up on Sunday morning to learn Dan Carter's groin injury had forced him out of the World Cup was almost too difficult to comprehend at first."
But the paper also talks to the former coach of replacement Colin Slade who taught the player when he was in the Canterbury Colts.
Stephen Dods says "He's an outstanding rugby player. It's just a matter of people being patient and waiting until he gets comfortable in the system, which he will do. It might take a game."
ODT
The Otago Daily Times leads on another story - a critical report by outgoing Southern District Health Board chief executive Brian Rousseau. He says a $41 million funding shortfall has been soul-destroying and stopped the board from investing in buildings and clinical equipment.
But rugby gets a look in too with an interview with Bev Carter and coverage of the Irish fans celebrating their team's win in Dunedin.
