Rugby News, Analysis, History, Schedule, Rumours
The eight sides who have progressed to the knockout stages should be confident that the RWC Quarterfinals referee selection should not influence any outcome. Hardly surprising you might say, in the well-managed environment of the Rugby World Cup. Little is left to chance by World Rugby – and that includes the nominations for referees, assistants […] READ MORE
This weekend’s semi-final match in Christchurch will cement the ‘lone’ New Zealand Super Rugby finalist. That is because “there can be only one…” and fanfare aside, it is a pivotal fixture in the 2018 season. The feature teams are; the current holders, the Crusaders. They invite the 2016 holders down to Christchurch, to determine the finish […] READ MORE
With Super Rugby kicking off in the next few weeks preparations are well underway for the 15 sides but they aren’t alone in that, with SANZAAR’s Super Rugby panel also deep into getting ready for the season ahead. The contraction of the competition also means a reduction in the number of referees on the panel […] READ MORE
It may be consistent with the current officiating-trends of SANZAAR, but the appointment of South African referee Jaco Peyper for this weekends’ Super Rugby final between the Lions and Crusaders, has to be seriously questioned. Australian referee Angus Gardner was the front-runner, and easily the most popular candidate to be in charge on the weekend. […] READ MORE
Given the four-year cycle of Lions Tours, an appointment to one of those limited Test matches is perhaps the pinnacle of a referee’s career, one likely only eclipsed by the World Cup Final. However, few would argue that anything in rugby even comes close to a Lions Test in terms of atmosphere. READ MORE
The use of television replays in rugby could became an embarrassment and requires firm guidance from rugby authorities to ensure that this does not happen. READ MORE
Ryan is the Managing Editor at Last Word on Rugby and resides in Johannesburg, South Africa. He specializes in opinion pieces relating to International rugby, Super Rugby and domestic rugby in South Africa.
His career highlights include being granted media accreditation for the Rugby World Cup tournament.