The Springboks are reportedly looking to add former Test referee Nigel Owens to their coaching ranks ahead of the Rugby World Cup.
Reports in January stated that Springboks director of rugby Rassie Erasmus was considering adding an expert referee analyst for the tournament in France. Owens has emerged as the preferred candidate.
Front runner
Erasmus is said to have presented the idea to SA Rugby executives at the start of the year but has now drawn up a shortlist, with Owens the front-runner.
According to a report by City Press, the Springboks’ management have put Owens forward to SA Rugby’s executive committee.
However, they could face a few stumbling blocks in their attempts to lure Owens into the role. The Welshman is currently involved with training the referees for World Rugby, which could preclude him from the position.
The report adds that South Africa could look locally for assistance if their attempts to bring Owens on board fails.
The publication reached out to the former Test referee for comment, and he confirmed that he hadn’t heard anything yet, but that “it would certainly be an honour.”
During his 17-year-long refereeing career, Owens broke several records, notably becoming the first official to take charge of 100 Test matches. He also officiated well over 100 PRO14 games, 98 Champions Cup ties and the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
History of referees coaching
Owens would not be the first former referee to move into coaching, with transition becoming a bit of a trend in France.
Montpellier recruited Alexandre Ruiz to help improve the side’s discipline. This helped the club claim their maiden Top 14 title last season.
Meanwhile, Romain Poite joined Toulon in a similar capacity at the start of the current campaign.
Jerome Garces is currently employed by the French national team and can often be spotted in the coaching box alongside head coach Fabien Galthie.
It is also common for Test teams to seek advice and guidance from international referees, particularly the ones from their own country. But there is a growing trend of teams hiring former officials permanently.
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