Eddie Jones reportedly brings in assistant referee to oversee England training session ahead of Ireland clash.
England head coach Eddie Jones has brought in one of the officials for their Six Nations match against Ireland on Saturday to referee a training session yesterday, according to British paper The Times.
South African Marius van der Westhuizen – who will be one of the assistants this weekend in Twickenham, along with Jaco Peyper and referee Angus Gardner – was in the England camp this week helping prepare for this weekend’s clash.
Reports have also came out that Joe Schmidt or the Irish camp have not heard anything about van der Westhuizen helping Eddie Jones preparation.
World Rugby has made referees available before and during international windows to try to increase the understanding between officials and coaches. A referee can not help a team in their preparations for a match but an assistant referee can do this.
Many people have since come out on social media questioning Jones move.
I haven’t questioned VdW’s credibility in any way.
I am surprised World Rugby allow assistant referees to go into camp in the week of the match. They don’t allow the ref.— Alex Lowe 📰 (@AlexMLowe) March 14, 2018
In many business-y ethical standards there’s independence of mind, but more relevant in this case – the appearance of independence. Silly decision to go – it gives us reason to suggest his objectivity has been compromised
— All Things Oval (@rugbyreview18) March 14, 2018