LEEDS - The contentious decision over who will referee the Tri-Nations test between Australia and Great Britain on Sunday has been postponed.
The New Zealand Rugby League had expected neutral referees to take control of all matches in the series, with its nominee being Christchurch official Glen Black.
However, Kangaroos coach Wayne Bennett last week questioned whether Black was experienced enough for the assignment.
RFL match officials director Stuart Cummings said yesterday that talks were continuing between the members of the tournament subcommittee.
The subcommittee comprises the chairmen of the three competing countries - Selwyn Pearson (New Zealand), Colin Love (Australia) and Richard Lewis (Great Britain).
Cummings said there would be no problem in delaying a decision, first expected on Monday, until tomorrow.
"All the referees involved are aware they could be refereeing this weekend and are preparing for that outcome," he said.
The others in line for the job at the City of Manchester Stadium are Englishman Russell Smith, who has controlled the two Tri-Nations matches so far between the Kiwis and Kangaroos, and Australian Tim Mander.
NZRL vice-chairman Selwyn Bennett, who is travelling with the Kiwis, said New Zealand would refuse to have an Australian control their two tests against Great Britain if Black was not appointed for Sunday.
He said Black had proved himself in the European Nations Cup and in English Super League matches last season.
"Our players are good enough and so are our referees," he said. "We brought Glen over here at our own expense to be a neutral referee. It's time to make a stand. If not, we will become a backwater."
- NZPA
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