Rugby: Referee Walsh has eye on World Cup games next

Steve Walsh. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Booze-free referee Steve Walsh has his comeback sights on refereeing at next year's World Cup.

The one-time top-of-the crop Kiwi whistler wants to front another tournament, though this time he will be representing Australia. The 37-year-old returns to the Super 14 stage tonight when he takes charge of the Force's match against the Brumbies in Perth.

"I know I have to prove myself all over again and that is one of my aims," he said yesterday. "I want to get back to test rugby and I don't think that will be too difficult. I am really excited about doing this again and I am convinced if all goes well I can get to do tests again this year.

"The World Cup? Yeah, if all goes well of course that will be an aim. If I keep my nose clean and all goes well I'm sure I'll have a good shot at it. I'm confident I can give it a strong shot."

Walsh has based himself in Australia since another alcohol-related incident saw him ditched from the New Zealand ranks. He says he has been dry since last April. During his recovery he felt the drive to referee once more.

"There were times in the last three years when I did not have that passion, I think I was just collecting a pay cheque," he said. "But getting back into it, I love what I do. It has been all I hoped for."

Walsh said he was encouraged by Australian high performance director and former Blues and Brumbies coach David Nucifora to move across the Tasman to sort his life out.

"I have worked hard but I love living here. It is over to me to keep on top of things, concentrate on what I know is good for me."

Walsh said the Australian sides had "bought in" strongly to the new rule interpretations. He expected the greatest change to be at the highly contested breakdown areas.

"This time should be great to return to the game. I think the alterations will deliver some great impact and impetus."