THE autumn internationals are over -- and the message is ringing out loud and clear. There is one team who can already be installed as clear favourites to win the 2003 World Cup.

No it's not England, for all their victories over two Southern Hemisphere giants Australia and South Africa, though both at home.

And it's not Australia, even if Graham Henry says they are still the best team in the world. I'm talking about New Zealand. True, they trailed Ireland 21-7, but they came swarming back to sweep the Irish aside 40-29.

And don't forget Ireland had beaten England to deny them the Grand Slam at the final hurdle for the third year running.

The All Blacks were also given a fair old test by Scotand in the first half, but it was a similar story after the interval.

They showed what a superb 80-minute team they are by rallying to crunch the Scots 37-6.

And this is only the start, the important point is they are a really young side with a whole clutch of unknowns arriving on the scene already making a huge impression in the rugby world.

Towering locks Norm Maxwell and Chris Jack for a start - young, fit, huge and a real force with their best a long way off. Doug Howlett looks a real menace on the wing while flanker Richie McCaw looks another tremendous discovery.

Jonah Lomu has lost none of his power while Andrew Mehrtens is still the ace controller. All this and key players like Christian Cullen and Jeff Wilson didn't even make the tour. The All Blacks are going to be some machine in two years' time, and the next World Cup is being hosted by them as well.

For all of England's formidable power up front, I can't see them holding the All Blacks when the time comes.

That is not to say they haven't sent shock waves around the world after their defeats of Australia and South Africa.

They're mighty strong up front with the added menace of Jason Robinson and his darting runs from full back, not to mention the incredible goal kicking of Jonny Wilkinson. Ireland are clearly going to be a threat in the Six Nations in the new year while France are emerging from the shadows, like New Zealand putting their faith in new young players.

Where does all this leave Wales? Still pretty much down the list it has to be said. Bad defeats against Ireland and Argentina, both at home, were followed by victory over Tonga and at least a battling performance against Australia. But there is no real sign that they are suddenly going to be a force.

They do have Italy and Scotland at home in the Six Nations, which ought to produce victories.

France are also in Cardiff, and anything could happen there. But Ireland in Dublin and England at Twickenham? Not much chance.

On a more domestic note, I can't end this column without joining the thousands wishing Newport County every success in their FA Cup replay against Blackpol tomorrow night at Spytty.

The whole place is buzzing, a bit like the old days at Somerton and what a fillip it would be for Tim Harris and his boys if they can win.