Yet another Rugby World Cup match official has decided to follow the likes of Wayne Barnes, Jaco Peyper, Tom Foley and Joy Neville in announcing their retirement. Ngā mihi nui, you’ll always be part of the NZR whānau.”Pickerill featured at the 2019 Rugby World Cup as an assistant referee and four years later was included as TMO for the 2023 Rugby World Cup, holding the role for seven matches, including the semi-final between England and South Africa. The 34-year-old is one of just five of New Zealand’s full-time professional rugby referees, and while his decision has come as a shock, Stuff.co.nz reports that he is set to take up a position with World Rugby. Meanwhile, Peyper has taken up a position within the SA Rugby coaching structures after his Rugby World Cup was cut short due to injury. READ MORE: TJ Perenara’s return threatens all-time Super Rugby Pacific record

Source: Stuff March 07, 2024 09:44 UTC