Owens milestone earns global plaudits

Owens will become the first referee in history to reach the magical milestone when he takes charge of tomorrow’s clash at Stade de France when France host Italy in the third round of the Autumn Nations Cup.

New Zealand captain Sam Cane, on behalf of the All Blacks, said he always admired the way Owens never took himself too seriously but is an ultimate professional and ‘when it comes to refereeing the game is a great man to have involved in our wonderful sport.’

World Cup winning coach Rassie Erasmus has congratulated Owens on the way he has been an example ‘for all of us on and off the field.’

“From all of South Africa, the rugby public and all the supporters and players we’d like to thank you and congratulate you on your achievement,” added Erasmus.

Former Wales head coach Warren Gatland said what Owens ‘has achieved for Welsh rugby and world rugby is absolutely outstanding.’

England head coach Eddie Jones said Owens has been a fantastic referee where he has brought humour and candour to the game ‘and helped improve the game so I hope you have another 100 in you.’

Wales team manager, Martyn Williams, himself a centurion, said ‘it was an incredible achievement and milestone to reach 100 internationals, the first person to do so, but thoroughly deserved.’

England referee Wayne Barnes has travelled the world with Owens and reveals how he has always admired the way his Welsh colleague adds value to a game no matter how hard or intense the games are.

Barnes, who is most likely to be the next official to reach the landmark as he is currently in the nervous nineties, says Owens has raised the bar for all referees which has meant everyone else has had to keep up over the last few years!

Australian referee Angus Gardner added Owens was his idol growing up and it was great to have worked with him in recent years ‘and to reach 100 Tests is ‘amazing’