Just like Andre Watson, Hollie is to referee two global deciders

NEWS: Hollie Davidson will make history when she referees the All Blacks’ final Test of their looming northern tour and follows in the footsteps of former South African legendary referee Andre Watson.

Davidson’s historic appointment was confirmed overnight, with World Rugby also announcing the officials for the three other All Blacks Tests as they attempt to secure a first Grand Slam since 2010.

The Scotswoman will become the first female to referee the All Blacks when they play Wales in Cardiff on November 23.

The 33-year-old recently took charge of the Women’s Rugby World Cup final, which England won against Canada at Twickenham.

Watson is the only other referee to whistle two global deciders.

Recently named World Rugby Referee of the Year, Davidson has already refereed the world champion Springboks against Italy in July.

Tappe Henning, the United Rugby Championship’s Head of Match Officials, has backed Davidson, who has taken charge of the last two Women’s World Cup Finals and the Challenge Cup final between Bath and Lyon in May, to referee at a men’s World Cup.

“Hollie is growing and showing the potential to reach a men’s World Cup Final as a referee.”

He added that the 33-year-old match official has responded to all of the challenges put in front of her.

Frenchman Pierre Brousset will take charge of their tour opener against Ireland in Chicago on November 2, before Australian Nic Berry oversees their match against Scotland at Murrayfield the following week.

Italian Andrea Piardi, who whistled the All Blacks’ Bledisloe Cup victory at Eden Park last month, will referee their penultimate Test of the year, against England at Twickenham on November 16.