Scotland vs South Africa referee is a talented Englishman who is destined for the very top
11/09/2024 07:34 AM
The Scotland vs South Africa referee for their Autumn Nations Series clash at Murrayfield is a talented Englishman who is destined for the very top.
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Murrayfield's clash between Scotland and South Africa in the Autumn Nations Series will be overseen by none other than Christophe Ridley. If you haven't been following this English referee's career, let's dive into why he's someone destined for the highest levels of officiating.
From University Graduate to Whistle Wonder
The 31-year-old’s journey into professional refereeing began after his time at the University of Gloucestershire. His rugby career didn't head towards playing at elite levels but rather developed in the less-traveled route of officiating. He picked up the whistle professionally in 2016 and never looked back. It’s been a rapid rise, marked by assignments in some of rugby's toughest arenas.
The Premiership Regular
For fans of English rugby, Ridley is no stranger. He’s a familiar face in Premiership Rugby, managing intense clashes with a calm authority that has earned him respect from players and coaches alike. But his influence extends beyond the English game.
European Adventures: Champions and Challenge Cups
In Europe, Ridley has brought his refined officiating to the biggest stages, featuring in both the European Rugby Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup. With an eye for detail and a deep understanding of the modern game, he's successfully navigated some of the competition’s most pressurized moments.
Debut Season in URC: Munster vs. Leinster
Ridley expanded his repertoire further in the United Rugby Championship. Making his debut in the 2021-22 season, he refereed the fierce inter-provincial derby between Munster and Leinster. It was an occasion that tested his composure and adaptability, but Ridley's performance drew praise, underscoring his capacity to handle the highest-profile games.
Stepping Into the Six Nations Arena
The Six Nations Championship is a tournament steeped in tradition, and Ridley made his highly anticipated debut there in 2024. His first match? A crucial showdown between France and Italy. It was another milestone in a burgeoning career, proving Ridley's credentials on one of rugby's most prestigious stages.
Murrayfield Awaits
Now, he's set to bring his expertise to Murrayfield, where the intensity of a Scotland vs. South Africa clash will provide a true test. With his trajectory only pointing upwards, Christophe Ridley is a name to watch, not just in this game but in the years to come.
This weekend’s referee’s, including Scotland vs South Africa referee.
Bristol v Australia XV
Referee: Craig Evans (Wal)
ARs: Sara Cox (Eng) & George Selwood (Eng)
TMO: Dan Jones (Eng)
Ireland vs New Zealand referee
Referee: Nic Berry (Aus)
ARs: Karl Dickson (Eng) & Andrea Piardi (Ita)
TMO: Brett Cronan (Aus)
Hong Kong China v Brazil
Referee: Reuben Keane (Aus)
ARs: Katsuki Furuse (Jpn) & Morgan White (HK)
England vs Australia referee
Referee: Ben O'Keeffe (NZR)
ARs: Nika Amashukeli (Geo) & Paul Williams (NZ)
TMO: Glenn Newman (NZR)
France v Japan
Referee: Damian Schneider (Arg)
ARs: Luke Pearce (Eng) & James Doleman (NZ)
TMO: Richard Kelly (NZR)
Italy v Argentina
Referee: Matt Carley (Eng)
ARs: Andrew Brace (Ire) & Adam Leal (Eng)
TMO: Mike Adamson (Sco)
Spain v Uruguay
Referee: Eoghan Cross (Ire)
ARs: Chris Busby (Ire) & TBC
TMO: Quinton Immelman (SA)
Romania v Tonga
Referee: Gianluca Gnecchi (Ita)
ARs: Morné Ferreira (Sco) & Federico Vedovelli (Ita)
TMO: Matteo Liperini (Ita)
Portugal v USA
Referee: Sam Grove White (Sco)
ARs: Takehito Namekawa (Jpn) & TBC
TMO: Andrew Jackson (Eng)
Canada v Chile
Referee: Angus Mabey (NZ)
ARs: Morné Ferreira (Sco) & Federico Vedovelli (Ita)
TMO: Matteo Liperini (Ita)
Georgia v All Blacks XV
Referee: Jordan Way (Aus)
ARs: Jeremy Rozier (Fra) & Aimee Barrett Theron (SA)
TMO: Brian MacNeice (Ire)
Wales v Fiji
Referee: Luc Ramos (Fra)
ARs: Pierre Brousset (Fra) & Hollie Davidson (Sco)
TMO: Eric Gauzins (Fra)
Scotland v South Africa
Referee: Christophe Ridley (Eng)
ARs: Angus Gardner (Aus) & Craig Evans (Wal)
TMO: Ian Tempest (Eng)
Bookies Reckon This is the Lions Squad for the 2025 Aussie Tour – And Some Picks Will Surprise You
The British & Irish Lions tour of Australia in 2025 is generating excitement, with bookies now tipping a likely squad.
While a few seasoned players seem almost guaranteed, there are some unexpected names rumored to earn their stripes.
2025 BRITISH & IRISH LIONS SQUAD (36)
BACK-THREE (6)
The back-three boasts a dynamic mix, with Duhan van der Merwe and James Lowe bringing powerful running and finishing ability. Tommy Freeman and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso are tipped to add youthful flair and speed, while Hugo Keenan and Darcy Graham round out the squad with their solid defensive skills.
- Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16
- James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8
- Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5
- Tommy Freeman (England) – 4/9
- Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (England) – 8/11
- Darcy Graham (Scotland) – 2/1
CENTRE (4)
In the centre, Bundee Aki is a strong favorite for his physicality, while Ollie Lawrence has made a name for himself with his impressive form. Sione Tuipulotu and Robbie Henshaw provide additional versatility and experience.
- Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5
- Ollie Lawrence (England) – 1/4
- Sione Tuipulotu (Scotland) – 2/7
- Robbie Henshaw (Ireland) – 8/11
FLY-HALVES (3)
The fly-half selection highlights Finn Russell's creativity and flair, with Marcus Smith and George Ford both showcasing tactical nous and playmaking ability.
- Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/10
- Marcus Smith (England) – 8/15
- George Ford (England) – 8/11
SCRUM-HALVES (3)
A competitive scrum-half group sees Jamison Gibson-Park favored for his quick service and decision-making, while Alex Mitchell and Ben White are both strong contenders.
- Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 8/11
- Alex Mitchell (England) – 11/10
- Ben White (Scotland) – 11/10
PROP (3)
The front row is anchored by stalwarts like Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter, while Ellis Genge and Joe Marler add depth and experience.
- Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 1/8
- Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/7
- Zander Fagerson (Scotland) – 4/11
- Ellis Genge (England) – 4/6
- Joe Marler (England) – 5/6
- Pierre Schoeman (Scotland) – 5/4
HOOKER (3)
With Dan Sheehan leading the way, the hookers are expected to be agile and mobile, crucial for the fast-paced style of play the Lions aim to adopt.
- Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 1/10
- Jamie George (England) – 8/15
- Elliot Dee (Wales) – 6/5
LOCK (5)
In the locks, Maro Itoje remains a cornerstone, complemented by Tadhg Beirne's athleticism and versatility.
- Maro Itoje (England) – 1/33
- Tadhg Beirne (Ireland) – 1/10
- Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 4/6
- Ollie Chessum (England) – 8/11
- George Martin (England) – 11/10
BACK-ROW (6)
Finally, the back row combines experience and dynamism, with Josh van der Flier and Courtney Lawes bringing a wealth of international experience and physicality.
- Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/5
- Ben Earl (England) – 1/5
- Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
- Courtney Lawes (England) – 8/15
- Tommy Reffell (Wales) – 4/6
- Rory Darge (Scotland) – 6/4
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EDITORS PICKS:
- Huge blow for Scotland as Darcy Graham will miss Springboks clash
- RFU issues statements in defence of former boss Eddie Jones after allegations surface
- England team to play Australia: Borthwick names XV early again
- Ireland legend Brian O'Driscoll went viral for incident at an airport
- England forward has been handed a big ban following altercation with a fan
Rugby Quiz:
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