Lawrence's Test career 'over'

Editor

Controversial New Zealand referee Bryce Lawrence's Test career appears to be a thing of the past.

Controversial New Zealand referee Bryce Lawrence's Test career appears to be a thing of the past.

That is the word from SANZAR referees boss Lyndon Bray, who revealed that Lawrence would not be officiating at Test level in the forseeable future.

“From an IRB perspective he has not been selected in the test,” Bray told South Africa's Eyewitness News.

“There's a decision that we as selectors in the IRB made back in March. His time is over at that level.”

Lawrence was heavily criticised in South Africa for his officiating during the Springboks' World Cup quarter-final loss to the Wallabies.

He has refereed Super Rugby matches this year, but refuses to travel to South Africa allegedly due fears for his safety following numerous threats from the country's supporters.

Bray said because Lawrence would not travel to South Africa it is highly unlikely that he would referee a Test again.

“At this stage he is clearly not on the team,” he explained.

“His challenge would be, if it's possible, to find his way back again.

“And I think given the reality and what he's gone through and the situation he's in at the moment that would be a huge ask,” added Bray.

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