South Africa boss Rassie Erasmus slammed for publicly criticising Aussie referee in Lions First Test defeat
RANTING South Africa boss Rassie Erasmus has been blasted for publicly abusing Australian referee Nic Berry.
The Australian Rugby Union, who employ ex Wasps scrum-half Berry, have returned fire after Erasmus’ wild 62-minute video takedown.
Gobby Erasmus highlighted 26 refereeing mistakes from last Saturday’s First Test defeat in a sensational and unprecedented outburst.
And after World Rugby refused to come down hard on the Springboks boss, the Wallabies have weighed in.
They said: “Rugby Australia has noted with dismay and concern the recent public commentary by South African director of rugby Rassie Erasmus, regarding Australian referee Nic Berry and other match officials.
“There is no place for abuse of match officials in Australian Rugby, with Rugby Australia committed to promoting a fair, safe and inclusive Rugby experience for all participants, officials and fans.
“Rugby Australia believes the recent actions are unacceptable and against the spirit and values of the game.”
Chief exec Andy Marinos was furious at Erasmus’ verbal grenades in which he also said Lions skipper Alun Wyn Jones was treated with more respect than his World Cup winning captain Siya Kolisi.
Marinos added: “Match officials form the very fabric of our game – simply, the game would not exist without them.
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“As a highly regarded and respected international referee appointed by World Rugby, the attack on Nic’s integrity, character and reputation is unacceptable.
“We have been in contact with World Rugby, under whose auspices this Test Series sit, and understand that they are actively reviewing this matter as some facts presented were not accurate.
“It is important to ensure public attacks of this nature are not tolerated. We will continue to provide support to Nic at this time, as both his physical and mental wellbeing remains a priority for us.”
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