Walsh withdraws… again

Referee Steve Walsh has been forced to withdraw from Sunday's Super Rugby clash between the Reds and Crusaders in Brisbane.

Referee Steve Walsh has been forced to withdraw from Sunday's Super Rugby clash between the Reds and Crusaders in Brisbane.

A recurring calf injury has delayed Walsh's return to Super Rugby refereeing as he continues to be frustrated by the injury, which is defying all treatment.

Walsh will be replaced by Stuart Dickinson, who was originally running the touchline for Sunday's fixture. Nathan Pearce has been brought in as Dickinson's assistant referee.

Walsh has been given a further two weeks to get over the injury and SANZAR Game Manager, Lyndon Bray, is hopeful that he will be able to return for Rounds 17 and 18.

“This has been very frustrating for Steve as well as for us, as his early form gave us high hopes for him throughout the competition,” said Bray.

“We are prepared to give Steve all the time possible to treat the injury and hope to see him back in the middle before the end of the regular season.

“Based on his recent form, Stuart Dickinson will now take the whistle for the key clash on Sunday.”