Viral clip of Wayne Barnes playing rugby shows why he was a referee

Former renowned referee Wayne Barnes, once hailed as one of the premier officials in global rugby, concluded his career post the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

Yet, a recent video casts doubt on his prowess in playing the game.

The footage in question, depicting Barnes grappling with a lineout, evoked laughter among viewers. While Barnes is known for his good-natured approach, the sight of him faltering in this instance amused many.

CREDIT: Dwyfor16 Reddit

Worst players to referee

#5. Joe Marler (England)

BARNES SAID: ” “He was always a funny one on the field in nice way. You’d be trying to tell him something serious and he’d just want to have a laugh and a joke.

“But he does bring a smile to your face. That is what is unique about our sport, the interaction between players and refs and refs and coaches. It does show our sport off in a good light.”

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Joe Marler facts: 

1. Marler started his career at Haywards Heath RFC in Sussex where he played in the same side as fellow England international Billy Twelvetrees
2. After joining the Quins academy in 2008, the prop spent some time on loan to Esher and Worthing
3. He’s been nicknamed Croissant. In his own words, it’s because: “The boys think I have a nose that looks like a French pastry.”
4. Marler was captain for England at U18s level and represented the U20 squad throughout the Junior World Championship in summer 2009
5. He is also one of the hosts of The Joe Marler Show podcast with Tom Fordyce

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