Withdrawn.

There’s been a huge match official shake-up ahead of the hugely anticipated series between Ireland and the Springboks in South Africa next month.

Australian official Angus Gardner has been pulled from his refereeing duties during the two-Test South Africa versus Ireland series after he withdrew himself for ‘personal reasons.’

England’s Luke Pearce will replace Gardner as match day referee for the first Test at Loftus Versfeld on July 6th and as AR for the second Test at the Hollywoodbets Kings Park, Durban the following weekend.

A World Rugby statement said:

“World Rugby has confirmed that Angus Gardner (Australia) has withdrawn from officiating duties for the two-test series between South Africa and Ireland for personal reasons. The Australian will be replaced by Luke Pearce (England) as referee for the first test and also as assistant referee for the second test.

“As a consequence of the change, there are also further amendments to the appointments, including Christophe Ridley (England), replacing Pearce as assistant referee for Japan v Georgia on 13 July.”