Wayne Barnes speaks out about the pressure for referees on tour and calls for more time to gel with players, but they have not been given it. Barnes mentions the 2021 series against South Africa, where Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus posted a 62-minute rant online about what he perceived to be refereeing inconsistencies. That rant not only led to him being banned for two months from all rugby activities, but it also led to Nic Berry, the referee, stating “that regardless of the outcome and any sanctions imposed, my reputation as a referee and person will forever be tarnished.” Barnes is an advocate of match officials working regularly together, to ensure nothing is left to chance. #Rugby #RugbyUnion #LionsSeries #LionsRugby #RugbyReferee #Referee #Lions2025