One of the first things Nigel Owens did when he was named referee for the Rugby World Cup final was thank the people who helped him through “those very tough and dark times years ago”.
Advertisement
Owens has been refereeing at worldwide level since 2005 and has previously officiated at both the 2007 and 2011 World Cups, while also holding the whistle in a number of European finals.
What hope for Richie McCaw and David Pocock when they’re sharing the stage with Nigel?
This is a huge honour and a privilege for me.
There is no question who is in charge and, while there are no guarantees that he will not make important mistakes this weekend, but the vast majority will agree that a meeting between the two best teams in the world is set to be overseen by the best referee in the game.
Rugby fans loved the dig at the reputation of rival footballers for diving.
My dad, in particular, is always there for me and is delighted with this news – it’s just a shame my mother is not here to see this as she was a pillar of strength for me.
Jerome Garces of France and England’s Wayne Barnes will be the touch judges with Shaun Veldsman of South Africa taking the role of television match official.
Guscott observed a New Zealand side which reduced penalties conceded in the second half, played a pragmatic territory game in the wet, and punished South African mistakes.
Advertisement
Selector Grant Fox said he was chosen as he is “clearly the best referee in the world – he’s demonstrated that”. Kiwi pair Glen Jackson and Chris Pollock will run the lines and England’s Graham Hughes will be on TMO duty.
