World Rugby's referee boss on Rassie: 'Counterproductive and totally inappropriate'
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: World Rugby’s Head of Match officials Joël Jutge has been left confused with Rassie Erasmus’ attitude towards referees.
South Africa’s Director of Rugby Erasmus has yet again made the headlines following the Springboks’ 26-30 defeat to France last Saturday.
In the wake of the French encounter, Erasmus posted a series of tweets – accompanied by videos – which highlighted a number of refereeing decisions made by Wayne Barnes.
While Erasmus’ tweets were supported by lots of his fans, there were some who did not agree with his methods or his constant attacks on referees.
In one of his social media posts, the Bok boss explained that his tweets are not there to criticise referees. However, it’s simply there to keep the South African public informed.
To make matters worse, Erasmus has only just returned from a stadium ban following a World Rugby suspension for his infamous hour-long video criticising referee Nic Berry’s performance in the first Test between the Springboks and the British and Irish Lions last year.
World Rugby has yet to officially respond to the latest outburst by Erasmus, however, speaking to RugbyRama, Jutge revealed he is disappointed with the 2019 World Cup-winning coach’s actions.
“We are very disappointed that he is using social networks to voice his reservations about the refereeing of this or that match,” Jutge said.
“It’s counterproductive and totally inappropriate. But if he does, it’s because his federation authorises him to do so – it’s unfortunate.
“I don’t understand Rassie Erasmus’ attitude.
“What will be done to make him stop? I don’t know. It’s not part of my skills.”
Jutge added that Erasmus’ attitude was a concern to World Rugby, but he didn’t provide any clarity over whether another sanction could be possible.
“His attitude is a concern for World Rugby and Rassie Erasmus’ peers do not share his way of doing things,” Jutge said.
“It is contrary to our values, even if this word is sometimes overused. Erasmus does not serve his cause and it is surprising to see him continue in this way.
“All referees are affected by these attacks on referees in general and Wayne Barnes last weekend. Because by doing so, Rassie Erasmus opens the door to violent behaviour and behind it, entire families are insulted and affected.
“It is extremely dangerous. But some people think that if the South African coach talks about a referee like that, they have the right to do it too.”
Source: Rugbyrama
