The Springboks, and Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus, remain hopeful that former international referee Nigel Owens will be in their corner as they seek to defend their World Cup title in France later this year. | Sport24news
Addressing media in Stellenbosch on Wednesday, Erasmus confirmed reports that he has been in contact with Owens over the possibility of working as a specialist refereeing consultant for the Boks.
Owens, a veteran of 100 Test matches and considered one of the greatest referees of all time, would be working with the Springbok players, but also as the communication bridge between the Boks and World Rugby. Nothing was confirmed yet, Erasmus said, and the appointment still needs to be approved by SA Rugby, while Owens would also need to declare himself fully available.
"There are a few other options, but Nigel was the first guy I was after when we had our first coach's planning meeting.
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