World Cup referee hit with suspension

New Zealand referee Steve Walsh has been suspended by World Cup chiefs following an altercation with a member of England's management…

New Zealand referee Steve Walsh has been suspended by World Cup chiefs following an altercation with a member of England's management team.

The ban begins this afternoon and will expire on Monday morning.

Walsh, one of the world's leading referees, was scheduled to be a touch judge at today's Pool B game between France and the USA in Wollongong.

Rugby World Cup today stressed that Walsh will be available for selection beyond the pool stages.

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England fitness adviser Dave Reddin was last night cleared by RWC independent judicial officer Brian McLaughlin over an alleged incident involving himself and the fourth official - Walsh - when England beat Samoa in Melbourne last Sunday.

"Following an incident involving the fourth official, Mr Steve Walsh, and a member of the England management team at the conclusion of the England versus Samoa match on Sunday, October 26th, an investigation has taken place today," said RWC, in a statement.

"Mr Walsh has subsequently been suspended for inappropriate behaviour during an exchange with a member of the England management team. He is suspended from 1400 Friday, October 31st, 2003, until 0900 on Monday, November 3rd.