Ex-international referee Wayne Barnes has pinpointed areas for World Rugby’s improvement, aiming to enhance officiating and gameplay.
Barnes has taken charge of a record 111 Tests, which included officiating at five World Cups.
In a recent Q&A on the Telegraph website, Barnes dissected the Six Nations weekend, tackling queries on scrums, breakdowns, and the game’s nuances.
“No game is ever the same,” Barnes emphasized, acknowledging the diverse challenges each match presents. He highlighted the unique complexities posed by skilled jackallers like Tommy Reffell and Sam Underhill, impacting both referees and opposing teams.
Barnes advocated for clearer directives, stating, “International referees should focus solely on blatant infractions.” He urged World Rugby to reinforce this, stressing penalisation of attacking teams only when the defence is faultless.
“Referees should prioritize game flow,” Barnes added, urging a whistle-light approach. “Encourage referees to avoid nitpicking technicalities.”
Regarding fan engagement, Barnes urged supporters to temper criticism, recognizing the limitations of live observation versus replay analysis.
In essence, Barnes’s insights offer a roadmap for refining officiating standards and fostering a more dynamic, less stop-start game.
Barnes: Toughest players to referee
#5. Joe Marler (England)
Joe Marler facts:
- Marler started his career at Haywards Heath RFC in Sussex where he played in the same side as fellow England international Billy Twelvetrees
- After joining the Quins academy in 2008, the prop spent some time on loan to Esher and Worthing
- 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.”
- Marler was captain for England at U18s level and represented the U20 squad throughout the Junior World Championship in summer 2009
- He is also one of the hosts of The Joe Marler Show podcast with Tom Fordyce