Wales vs England referee was left in tears after a game following tragic loss
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England’s Six Nations title hopes are on the line this weekend, here’s who will be the Wales vs England referee in Cardiff.
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Steve Borthwick's side can lift the trophy if they secure a bonus-point win and France fail to beat Scotland in Paris. A standard victory could also be enough if Les Bleus don't claim a try-scoring bonus, while a draw or defeat might still see them crowned champions—provided France and Ireland both slip up without picking up bonus points.
At the other end of the table, Wales are battling to avoid the Wooden Spoon for a second consecutive year. Warren Gatland's men sit bottom, a point behind Italy, who face an uphill battle against title-chasing Ireland in Rome.
Who is the Wales vs England referee?
Born in Brisbane in 1984, Nic Berry was once a promising player himself. He represented Australia at the U21 World Cup in 2005 and featured for the Prime Minister's XV against Japan in 2006. However, he never earned a senior Wallabies cap.
Berry's club career took him from Queensland Reds in Super Rugby to Racing 92 in France, before a stint with Wasps in England. Unfortunately, persistent concussions forced him to retire at just 28.
Refereeing soon became his new calling. After Rugby Australia convinced him to take up the whistle, he quickly ascended the ranks, officiating at the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups. Last year, he oversaw the crunch clash between Ireland and Scotland as well as the bronze final between England and Argentina.
An emotional 31st Test match
Berry's officiating milestone in Argentina vs. Samoa at the 2023 Rugby World Cup was deeply personal. It marked his 31st Test—matching the tally of his late mentor, Andrew Cole.
Cole, a former referee and match official selector, passed away from cancer in 2022. Before his death, he had expressed a desire to see Berry surpass his Test match total. To honour his mentor, Berry dedicated the occasion to him, sharing an emotional moment with Cole's widow, Anne-Maree, who presented him with a replica of his 2019 World Cup medal.
Torn apart by Rassie Erasmus
Berry found himself in the eye of the storm during the 2021 British & Irish Lions tour when Springboks boss Rassie Erasmus launched an extraordinary video attack on his officiating.
Erasmus accused Berry of favouring Alun Wyn Jones over Siya Kolisi, releasing a controversial hour-long video highlighting alleged errors. The backlash was severe, leading to Erasmus receiving a two-month ban for misconduct.
Berry later revealed the toll it took on him and his family, saying: "The public attack on my integrity and character is not something that should be tolerated in any workplace."
Wales vs England Referee lineup:
Wales vs England Referee: Nic Berry (Australia)
Assistant Referees: Karl Dickson (England), Andrea Piardi (Italy)
TMO: Brett Cronan (Australia)
Split Screen: Ben Whitehouse (Wales)
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Forwards
1. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 1/2
A converted loosehead prop who started his career as a tighthead, Porter is a cornerstone of Ireland's pack with his powerful scrummaging and relentless work rate around the pitch.
2. Dan Sheehan (Ireland) – 3/10
One of the most dynamic hookers in world rugby, Sheehan offers explosive ball-carrying ability and strong set-piece play. He has become a key figure in Ireland's recent successes.
3. Tadhg Furlong (Ireland) – 8/13
Arguably the best tighthead prop in the game, Furlong is known for his scrummaging dominance and remarkable skills in open play, often moving like a back despite his size.
4. Maro Itoje (England) – 1/5
The only Englishman in the starting XV, Itoje is a world-class lock with exceptional athleticism, lineout expertise, and a knack for disrupting opposition attacks. A Lions veteran, he'll be vital for the tour.
5. Joe McCarthy (Ireland) – 1/2
A rising star in Irish rugby, McCarthy has made a huge impact with his physicality and work rate in Leinster's second row. He's quickly becoming a dominant force in European rugby.
6. Josh van der Flier (Ireland) – 1/3
The 2022 World Player of the Year, Van der Flier is an outstanding openside flanker with relentless tackling, breakdown skills, and an ability to pop up in crucial moments.
7. Ben Earl (England) – 4/9
England's standout forward in recent tournaments, Earl's dynamic ball-carrying, high work rate, and speed make him a perfect fit for the Lions' back row.
8. Caelan Doris (Ireland) – 1/4
One of the best No.8s in world rugby, Doris combines intelligence, strength, and leadership. His ball-carrying ability and defensive prowess make him an essential selection.
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