Wales vs England referee was left in tears after a game following tragic loss

Thursday, 13 March 2025 at 08:08

byRugby Rucker

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)

Bookies Predict the Lions XV to Face Australia – Two England Players Start

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.

Backs

9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Ireland) – 1/3

Originally from New Zealand, Gibson-Park has revolutionized Ireland’s attack with his fast tempo and crisp distribution. His quick decision-making will be key in Australia.

10. Finn Russell (Scotland) – 1/4

A mercurial fly-half known for his creativity, pinpoint kicking, and unpredictable attacking play, Russell is the X-factor the Lions will need to unlock Australia’s defence.

11. James Lowe (Ireland) – 1/8

A powerful winger with a cannon of a left boot, Lowe has been a game-changer for Ireland, providing pace, physicality, and superb finishing ability.

12. Bundee Aki (Ireland) – 1/5

One of the most destructive centres in world rugby, Aki blends power with slick handling and defensive solidity. His recent form makes him a nailed-on Lions starter.

13. Huw Jones (Scotland) – 1/2

A classy centre with a sharp rugby brain, Jones is known for his attacking lines, pace, and ability to break defences. He has returned to top form for Scotland.

14. Duhan van der Merwe (Scotland) – 1/16

A giant winger with terrifying pace and strength, Van der Merwe has been a try-scoring machine for Scotland and was one of the stars of the 2021 Lions tour.

15. Hugo Keenan (Ireland) – 1/5

One of the most consistent full-backs in world rugby, Keenan is rock solid under the high ball, defensively sound, and a dangerous attacking threat.

This projection underscores Ireland's strong presence, with ten players expected to start, reflecting their recent dominance in international rugby. Scotland contributes three players, notably in key backline positions, while England's representation is limited to Maro Itoje in the forwards.

The selection process for the Lions is always a topic of intense debate, influenced by players' form, fitness, and performances in the lead-up to the tour. As the 2025 tour approaches, these odds may shift, especially with upcoming international fixtures and domestic competitions providing players with opportunities to stake their claims.

Note: The odds presented are based on current bookmaker predictions and are subject to change as the tour date nears.

You’ll have to be red-hot to get 15/15 in this 2010s Six Nations quiz

The Six Nations Championship, Europe’s premier rugby tournament, has delivered unforgettable moments and showcased some of the game’s greatest players.

From stunning tries to epic battles, the 2010s were packed with rugby brilliance.

Can you name the players who lit up the tournament during this golden decade? You’ll need to be on top form to get 15/15—are you up for the challenge? Let’s kick off!

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