Australia have been eliminated from the Women’s Rugby World Cup, losing their final pool game to France 17-3 in Paris on Saturday.

France progress to the semi-finals alongside Canada, Ireland and England.

Wallaroos coach Paul Verrell was proud of his side.

“We always knew that taking on France in Paris was going to be a tall order considering the wealth of experience and success France has had in recent times,” he said.

“I’m couldn’t be more proud of our defence and how we never gave up despite the onslaught of pressure-particularly in the second half.”

Meanwhile, four-time defending champions New Zealand saw their hopes of a fifth successive Women’s World Cup title end before they played their final pool match on Saturday.