Rugby World Cup 2019: England set to be fined over haka challenge

England are likely to be hit with a fine for their innovative response to the All Blacks' haka before their World Cup semi-final win on Saturday.

The brainchild of coach Eddie Jones, the English players spread in a V-shaped formation to face the New Zealander's trademark haka in a display of defiance and solidarity in Yokohama.

But World Rugby's rules dictate that no player is allowed to cross the halfway line during the haka, and six of the English team breached that guideline, despite officials telling them to back off. 

France were fined for the same offence when they edged ahead across the 50m lined up prior to the 2011 World Cup final at Eden Park.

The sport's governing body is expected to make its ruling on Tuesday (NZT), but given the precedent set against France eight years ago, it seems a fine is inevitable.

Whether England's tactic had its desired effect is unclear. But given the outcome of the match, you would imagine they wouldn't be too begrudging should they have to pay a small price for it.

Rugby World Cup 2019: England set to be fined over haka challenge

"We wanted not to just stand there and let them come at us," said England's Owen Farrell post-game.

England will play South Africa in the final in Tokyo on Sunday.

Join us for live updates of All Blacks v Wales from Friday 10pm

Newshub.