Barnes to break Premiership record

Wayne Barnes will break the record for most Aviva Premiership matches refereed on Friday when he takes charge of Worcester Warriors’ home clash with London Irish.

Barnes will surpass the mark set by Chris White, who officiated 190 matches in English rugby’s top league between 1997 and 2011.

Premiership Rugby rugby director Phil Winstanley.said: “This weekend Wayne will receive many well deserved plaudits from across the game and all of these are fully deserved.

“In the last 15 years Wayne has arguably become the number one referee in world rugby and we’re fortunate to have Wayne plying his trade in the Aviva Premiership each week.

“He has travelled the world for many years officiating Premiership, European and International rugby yet the quality and level of performance rarely waivers.

“He’s an extremely consistent performer and has been over many years, and he is held in high regard by players and coaches alike.”