Rugby: The object of our vitriol set to return

The man who was for a while number 1 on the list of the most despised people in New Zealand is back.

Englishman Wayne Barnes, whose refereeing blunders arguably cost the All Blacks dearly in the World Cup semifinal in Cardiff last year, is set for another appointment with the men in black.

Barnes will run the touchline as referee's assistant during the All Blacks' Tri Nations clash with South Africa in Cape Town next month.

The inexperienced Barnes surprised many when he was given control of the All Blacks' quarterfinal match against France at the World Cup.

To many New Zealand rugby fans, Barnes cost the ABs the game by missing a blatant forward pass which led to a try, coupled with his refusal to penalise France for persistent infringements around the ruck during the final moments.

- NZHERALD STAFF