New world mark awaits Honiss in Paris
NZPA
October 18, 2007

New Zealander Paul Honiss is on the verge of breaking Welshman Derek Bevan's record of 44 internationals to become the world's most capped rugby referee.

He will reach the milestone when he controls tomorrow's (NZT) World Cup playoff for third between France and Argentina in Paris.

Since making his test debut in a World Cup qualifier between Tahiti and the Cook Islands in 1997, Honiss has gone on to become one of the world's leading test referees.

Last year he became New Zealand's most capped test referee, overhauling Paddy O'Brien's total of 37 tests.

"Paul is an exceptional referee and a true professional and has demonstrated this on the world stage for a decade, incorporating three rugby World Cups," said O'Brien, now the International Rugby Board's referees manager.

"This landmark is credit to his outstanding ability and consistency to succeed at the top level and should be an inspiration to all aspiring match officials."

Honiss, who has officiated in three matches to date at this year's World Cup, said that he was honoured to surpass a record that had stood for six years.

"Derek Bevan is an iconic name in refereeing circles. He refereed in the first four rugby World Cups and enjoyed an international career that spanned 26 years.

"It truly is an honour to be mentioned alongside the great Welshman and one that probably will not sink in until after the final whistle tomorrow."

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