Nigel Owens is reportedly being targeted by the Springboks to be their referee coach as they look to retain their World Cup crown in France later this year.
According to City Press newspaper, the world champions have identified the Welshman as their preferred candidate and have put the proposal to South Africa Rugby’s executive committee.
Refereeing legend Owens, who was the man in the middle for the 2015 World Cup final between New Zealand and Australia at Twickenham, hung up his whistle in 2021 having taken charge of a record 100 international Tests.
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Since retiring, he has focused on his farm in west Wales, while also coaching young referees and doing media work.
It remains to be seen whether he might return to the Test arena as a consultant to the Springboks.
One issue is the work Owens does helping to train referees for World Rugby may rule him out of specifically helping the Springboks at the global showpiece in France this autumn.
If Wales Online columnist Nigel is unavailable, the ‘Boks appear likely to look for assistance from within their own country, with no date yet confirmed for an appointment.
When approached by City Press for a comment, Owens is reported by them to have said: “I haven’t heard anything, but it would certainly be an honour.”
Owens was widely regarded as the greatest referee of his generation. As well as taking charge of the 2015 World Cup final, he refereed the England versus New Zealand semi-final last time out in Japan, a game viewed by many as the best of the tournament.
He has also refereed a record number of Heineken Cup finals.
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