RFU Elite Referee Chris White will take charge of his 50th test match when Scotland line up against Fiji at Murrayfield this weekend.
In a 14-year international career, Cheltenham born White has officiated at three Rugby World Cup's including taking charge of the New Zealand v Australia semi-final in 2003.
White first picked up a whistle at the tender age of 17 when he wasn't allowed to play on a Saturday due to school trials and in the pub the night before he was persuaded to be the referee for the Cheltenham Saracens 3rd XV fixture the next day.
A centre for Cheltenham Grammar, Cheltenham Saracens, Cheltenham RFC he went on to play at Swansea University after previously representing Gloucester Schools at U16 and U18 levels. His first game as an international official came in November 1995 when Italy hosted South Africa and his test debut as a referee took place two and a half years later when Georgia faced Russia.
White went on to act as touch judge in another 63 test matches and as a referee in three Heineken Cup finals including Munster's win at the Millennium Stadium in 2006, 2 Premiership finals and 1 Tetley's Bitter Cup final. He has currently been in charge of more Premiership matches than any other referee.
White said: "I am looking forward to the game this weekend very much. I'm grateful for the immense support I have received from so many colleagues in so many places and roles over the years.
"I have been very fortunate to have witnessed many wonderful occasions and have been privileged to be on the field with the best players in the world. I am still enjoying all aspects of refereeing and I'm looking forward to the kick off at Murrayfield."
IRB International Referee Manager Paddy O' Brien said: "Chris has been an outstanding contributor to international refereeing over the last 12 years and I would like to congratulate him on his 50th international.
"It is not just what Chris brings to the field of play but just as important is the respect and experience he brings to the international panel that has been a hallmark of a wonderful career. I will be at the match on Saturday and I'm looking forward to another excellent performance."
No comments:
Post a Comment