UPDATE: Wayne Barnes leads all-English officiating team in 2023 RWC final

Wayne Barnes has officially been named as the referee for the 2023 Rugby World Cup final and he will be assisted three of his countrymen in the showpiece event.

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CONFIRMED: WAYNE BARNES IN THE MIDDLE SPRINGBOKS V ALL BLACKS

Wayne Barnes — already the most experienced referee in the history of Test rugby — will take charge of a record-extending 111th Test match when he referees the final between South Africa and New Zealand at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, Paris on Saturday evening. 

Barnes’ compatriots Karl Dickson and Matthew Carley will be his assistants, with another Englishman, Tom Foley, taking on the TMO duties to complete an all-English Premiership officiating lineup.

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WORLD RUGBY BOSS ON REFEREE APPOINTMENT

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “On behalf of World Rugby, I would like to congratulate Wayne Barnes on his deserved appointment as the Rugby World Cup 2023 final referee. Such an appointment is a reflection of Wayne’s calibre, not just at this tournament but over a distinguished career.

“It is a result of his devotion to the game, the support of his family and the spirit of collaboration and excellence that exists across our entire match official team. We wish him well this weekend.”

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World Rugby High Performance 15s Match Official Manager Joël Jutge added: “Wayne Barnes’ ability to read and understand the game is second to none. He also embodies the passion, professionalism and dedication that is at the heart of a superb team of match officials at this Rugby World Cup.

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