South Africa vs England referee: Who is James Doleman?

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James Doleman is the referee for South Africa vs England on the opening weekend of rugby’s new Nations Championship.

Born in Tauranga in the Bay of Plenty, Doleman took up officiating while still a student in Dunedin. With his parents living in Hong Kong, Doleman has also spent plenty of time refereeing in the city.

He took charge of the final of the 2019 World Rugby U20 Championship before becoming a professional referee a year later, overseeing a number of Super Rugby fixtures in 2020.

A step-up to international level followed in 2021. It was at Twickenham three years ago that he oversaw a first Six Nations encounter, refereeing England’s win over Italy, while he operated as an assistant during the World Cup in France in the autumn of 2023.

Doleman is joined on the officiating team by two more Test referees in Ireland’s Andrew Brace and Pierre Brousset of France, who today operate as assistants. Compatriot Richard Kelly is the TMO, with Olly Hodges on hand in the bunker to rule on any acts of foul play.

South Africa vs England match officials

Referee: James Doleman (NZ)

Assistant Referees: Andrew Brace (Ire) & Pierre Brousset (Fra)

Television Match Official: Richard Kelly (NZ)

Foul Play Review Officer: Olly Hodges (Ire)