Walsh steps in for Final

Australia's Steve Walsh will oversee the Super Rugby Final in Hamilton on Saturday – on merit.

The New Zealand Conference champions, the Chiefs, host the sixth-placed wildcard finisher, the Sharks.

The 2012 Super Rugby Final will take place on Saturday, August 4, at Waikato Stadium.

"Steve thoroughly deserves this appointment to the Final, having been arguably our most consistent performer in the middle, throughout this competition," SANZAR Game Manager Lyndon Bray said.

"Steve is in great form and he will contribute to what should be an outstanding Final."

Bray commented that it is always a proud moment for an official to represent the referee team in a Final.

Saturday, August 4 – Chiefs v Sharks:

Waikato Stadium, Hamilton, New Zealand

Kick-off (19.35 NZ time, 09.35 SA time 07.35 GMT, 17.35 AEST)

Referee: Steve Walsh

Assistant referee: Craig Joubert, Keith Brown

TMO: Garratt Williamson