The RFU have confirmed that referee Christophe Ridley will work with Steve Borthwick’s facet in a “extra formal function” to assist round officiating.
The 32-year-old worked with England through the Guinness Six Nations this yr in an advisory function, whereas additionally persevering with his officiating duties within the championship, taking cost of Eire’s victory over Wales on the Principality Stadium and working as an assistant referee as France beat Ireland in Dublin.
Ridley continued to work all through the Gallagher Premiership season as nicely, most just lately overseeing Bathtub’s semi-final victory over Bristol Bears on the Rec.
Whereas the RFU have outlined Ridley’s function, advising “the set-up on legislation adjustments, interpretations, self-discipline, and common referee engagement,” there isn’t a info as to how he’ll maintain this function alongside being a referee in each the membership and worldwide recreation.”
This is not unfamiliar territory in international rugby, as South Africa head coach Rassie Erasmus added Ridley’s former colleague Jaco Peyper to his teaching employees final yr. Nevertheless, that appointment had come after Peyper had retired from officiating.
An RFU statement on LinkedIn reads: “The RFU can verify that Christophe Ridley will tackle a extra formal function with the England Senior Males’s workforce, offering specialist assist round officiating.
“Ridley, an expert referee since 2016, will advise the set-up on legislation adjustments, interpretations, self-discipline, and common referee engagement.”
England are making ready to tackle a France XV at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium this Saturday, earlier than embarking on a two-Check tour of Argentina and a one-off Check in opposition to the USA in Washington, D.C.
Government director of efficiency rugby on the RFU Conor O’Shea mentioned: “This appointment displays the sport working collectively – recognising and valuing the significance of refereeing and the way it can positively affect efficiency. Christophe’s expertise and perception can be massively precious for the gamers and coaches alike.”
