Romaine Poite is set to referee his final international match this weekend – World Rugby have confirmed.
The popular Frenchman, who made his debut in 2006, will take charge of his 72nd test match, cementing his status in third on the all-time list of test match appearances behind Nigel Owens (100) and Wayne Barnes (96).
Before becoming a referee, the 45-year-old was a police detective in Toulouse. During the Autumn Nations Series, he will be tackling a different sort of law-breaker after putting down the baton for the referee's whistle in 2007.
He's expected to return to the police once he stops refereeing completely.
Other day jobs of rugby referees:
#1. Jaco Peyper - Lawyer
The 38-year-old still operates as an attorney for his family business, Peyper Attorneys while continuing to be one of the worlds best referees. The 40-year-old recently revealed that he wants to keep refereeing until at least 2023.
#2. Nigel Owens - Farmer
The popular Welshman had an interest in farming since he was a young kid and it has always played a huge part in his life away from the rugby field. Over the years, Owens has been able to save up to buy his own farm with his partner Barrie and so far they've built up 26 pedigree Hereford cattle.
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#3. Wayne Barnes (Barrister)
Barnes is a barrister and one of the founding members of Fulcrum Chambers. He heads up their Sports Law team and uses his unparalleled experience of supporting corporate clients whilst still being heavily involved at the top end of professional sport,
#4. Ben O'Keeffe - Eye Doctor
One of New Zealand's six full-time referees, O'Keeffe is also a qualified doctor specialising in ophthalmology, which deals with eye health and disease.
