England vs All Blacks referee confirmed ahead of Autumn opener
Today at 09:26 AM
The opening weekend of the Autumn Nations Series is set, and the England vs All Blacks referee has been confirmed.
Below, we've got the profiles of the officials who will keep the games flowing. Here's the lowdown:
News on The Whistle is brought to you by ACME Whistles – the whistle of choice for world class referees around the world.
England vs All Blacks referee
Referee: Angus Gardner (Australia)
One of the most experienced referees in the Southern Hemisphere, Gardner has been officiating international matches since 2011. Known for his calm and decisive style, Gardner was awarded the World Rugby Referee of the Year in 2018, solidifying his status as a go-to official for major games.
Assistant Referees:
- Pierre Brousset (France): A rising star in European rugby, Brousset has earned his stripes across both the French Top 14 and international tests, praised for his precision and assertive calls.
- Jordan Way (Australia): A former player, Way brings a player’s insight to his officiating. He's a respected figure in Super Rugby and has recently stepped up to international duties with a focus on quick and accurate decision-making.
TMO: Marius van der Westhuizen (South Africa)
Known for his expertise in video review, van der Westhuizen has been a TMO for several Rugby World Cup games. His keen eye ensures clear communication and fast resolutions to tight calls on the field.
Scotland vs Fiji
Referee: Craig Evans (Wales)
Evans, a former Sevens player, transitioned to refereeing and has made a name for himself as a fair and direct official in both Six Nations and international tests. His background in Sevens adds a unique tempo to his refereeing style.
Assistant Referees:
- Christophe Ridley (England): With a reputation for upholding player safety and discipline, Ridley is a respected figure in the Premiership and has recently moved onto the international stage.
- Luc Ramos (France): Ramos brings extensive experience from the Top 14 and Champions Cup, known for his meticulous control of the breakdown and no-nonsense approach.
TMO: Brett Cronan (Australia)
Cronan is known for his deep knowledge of rugby's technicalities and has served as a TMO in some of the biggest southern hemisphere games. His analytical approach keeps the game fair and fast.
Munster vs All Blacks XV
Referee: Takehito Namekawa (Japan)
One of Japan's top officials, Namekawa's extensive experience includes the Japanese Top League and international test matches. His consistent decision-making and clear communication have made him a trusted referee in high-pressure situations.
Assistant Referees:
- Matthew Carley (England): Known for his quick thinking and rapport with players, Carley is a veteran in the English Premiership and a regular on the international circuit.
- Antony Woodthorpe (England): An experienced Premiership referee, Woodthorpe is known for his technical accuracy and excellent management of set-pieces and scrums.
TMO: Damon Murphy (Australia)
Murphy, a former player himself, brings a player-focused perspective to his TMO role, ensuring accurate and fair calls with an emphasis on clarity and speed.
NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, it's nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. He's such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“It's a toss of a coin for me… and it's come down in Folau's favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. He's so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know he's a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, you'll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but he's a fantastic man off the field as well. O'Driscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “He's another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Ma'a has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if we've been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed it's pretty much an impossible task to pick one because I've been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if I'm pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”
CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO
The post England vs All Blacks referee confirmed ahead of Autumn opener appeared first on Ruck.
