Referee Nika Amashukeli Ruled Out of Springboks vs All Blacks Second Test in Cape Town
According to World Rugby, Georgian referee Nika Amashukeli has been ruled out of the upcoming second Test between the Springboks and All Blacks at Cape Town Stadium due to illness. Australian referee Angus Gardner will replace Amashukeli for the Saturday clash, while a reshuffled officiating team steps in across both upcoming fixtures in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.
Match Officials Shift Following Illness Withdrawal
Angus Gardner was originally appointed to referee the third Test at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on 5 September, but shifts to Cape Town following Amashukeli’s withdrawal. According to World Rugby, Amashukeli is now scheduled to take charge of the Johannesburg fixture, effectively swapping matches with Gardner. England’s Karl Dickson remains as an assistant referee in Cape Town alongside Scotland’s Sam Grove-White. Brett Cronan of Australia serves as the TMO, while France’s Eric Gauzins acts as the foul play review officer.
Pro Tip: Keeping track of late match official changes is crucial for understanding how different refereeing interpretations might influence breakdown penalties and disciplinary speed during high-intensity international fixtures.
Officiating Lineup for the Third Test in Johannesburg
For the third Test at FNB Stadium, Nika Amashukeli takes the whistle with Angus Gardner transitioning to assist him on the touchline, according to World Rugby announcements. Eric Gauzins moves into the Television Match Official (TMO) chair, while Brett Cronan takes over duties as the foul play review officer for the Johannesburg encounter.
Did You Know? Match officials frequently swap assignments or serve across multiple roles—such as transitioning between referee, assistant referee, and TMO duties—during multi-match international series to maintain continuity within the officiating panel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Nika Amashukeli replaced for the second Test?
World Rugby confirmed that Nika Amashukeli was ruled out of the Cape Town Test because he has not recovered from illness.
Who is replacing Nika Amashukeli for the Cape Town match?
Australian referee Angus Gardner has taken over refereeing duties for the second Test at Cape Town Stadium.
Which match will Nika Amashukeli referee instead?
Amashukeli has swapped matches with Gardner and is now scheduled to take charge of the third Test at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg on 5 September.
Who are the assistant referees for the Cape Town Test?
England’s Karl Dickson and Scotland’s Sam Grove-White serve as the assistant referees for the fixture in Cape Town.
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