Last weekend’s Crusaders versus Reds game was a replay of last year’s grand final of the Super Rugby. Yet, much-maligned Bryce Lawrence was handed the referee duties for the occasion.
Regardless of whether he did a good job or not (and that issue has taken up a lot of posts since Sunday), why was he appointed to it?
It was a plum appointment, deserving a top notch ref.
After the Wallabies versus Springboks Rugby World Cup quarter final the IRB appointments representative conceded he had a bad game.
The general consensus, even from Australians, was that he had reffed abominably.
The appointments board has shown they do not think he is refereeing well.
He has been dropped from the international panel. He has not been receiving the top appointments this Super Rugby series. They don’t seem to think much of him.
It’s like the Wallaby player from decades ago who was first chosen against the wishes of the-then Wallaby coach. He thought the player useless and did not want him in the team.
The player was welcomed to the first training session by the coach, who placed a conciliatory arm around his shoulder as said “I don’t blame you son. I blame the selectors”
The same can be said about Lawrence. He is clearly not refereeing well, but who would knock back an appointment of that calibre.
I don’t blame Bryce. I blame the appointments board.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
It was a memorable night in more ways than one for the Queensland forward.
The youngster was playing his first Super Rugby Pacific debut off the bench, but his game wasn't the main talking point after the game.
Is this a sign that rugby laws are getting too tricky, even for the players and commentators?
The kick of around 50 metres got the Reds well downfield!
Wallaby Jordie Petaia is in doubt for the rest of the Super Rugby season, and potentially Australia's Test series against Wales, after suffering a…
The Reds centre had to leave the field to get the shoulder popped in, with fears he will need several weeks on the sideline…
