12/07/2006
XtraMSN
Paul Honiss will become New Zealand's most capped test referee when he controls the Tri Nations clash between Australia and South Africa in Brisbane this Saturday.
He will reach the milestone of 38 tests at Suncorp Stadium. Honiss equalled the record of 37 tests previously held by Paddy O'Brien when he officiated in the IRB World Cup qualifier between Tonga and the Cook Islands last month.
New Zealand Rugby Union manager of high performance refereeing, Keith Lawrence, said it was a fantastic achievement for Honiss who was recognised as one of the world's top rugby referees.
"Paul is an exceptional referee and he has demonstrated that on the world stage. This achievement is a credit to his outstanding ability and drive to succeed at the top level," Mr Lawrence said.
Honiss started his international refereeing career in 1997 when he whistled the international between Tahiti and the Cook Islands. Since then he has officiated in two World Cup tournaments, including the opening match between Australia and Argentina at the 2003 event.
The world record for the most test matches refereed is held by Welshman Derek Bevan, who has officiated in 43 tests.
New Zealand's top five test referees:
Paul Honiss (37 tests)
Paddy O'Brien (37 tests)
David Bishop (26 tests)
Colin Hawke (24 tests)
Steve Walsh (21 tests)[/b]
