Honiss poised for refereeing milestone

Paul Honiss

Paul Honiss is on the verge of becoming New Zealand's most capped rugby test referee.

He will control his 38th test when Australia play South Africa in a Tri-Nations international in Brisbane on Saturday.

Honiss equalled the record of 37 tests, held by Paddy O'Brien, when he refereed the World Cup qualifier between Tonga and Cook Islands last month.

New Zealand Rugby Union manager of high performance refereeing, Keith Lawrence, today said it was a fantastic achievement for Honiss, who was recognised as one of the world's top referees.

"Paul is an exceptional referee and he has demonstrated that on the world stage," he said.

"This achievement is a credit to his outstanding ability and drive to succeed at the top level."

Honiss started his international career in 1997 when he controlled the international between Tahiti and Cook Islands.

He has since officiated at two World Cup tournaments, including the opening match between Australia and Argentina at the 2003 event.

The world record for the most tests for a referee is held by Welshman Derek Bevan, with 43.

- NZPA