Ref changes for Six Nations

Steve Walsh, the Test referee once of New Zealand, now of Australia, has been forced to withdraw from the Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham on 26 February.

Walsh has a knee injury, but damage has been done to cartilage and is to concentrate on his rehabilitation.

George Clancy of Ireland will replace Walsh. It will be Clancy’s 16th Test since his debut in 2006.

With an eye to the World Cup later this year, Walsh has been appointed to replace Alain Rolland of Ireland in the match between Scotland and Italy at Murrayfield on 19 March.

Walsh is also out of this Saturday’s Super 15 match between the Sharks and the Cheetahs. Craig Joubert takes his place.