Rugby's Super 12 competition involving Australia, New Zealand and South Africa intends putting international referees under even more pressure than television replays have already done (video referee Brian Campsall will forever remember Brian O'Driscoll's try against France). Newer technology is the reason. Referees will come under closer scrutiny due to ground announcers being wired to the official and being able to communicate decisions to the crowd. Not content with a third-party interpretation, spectators will also be able to buy headsets which tune them in to the referee's microphone during Super 12 games.
The innovation means players too will be more open to criticism as the hand or the body which landed the punch or the offside will also be identified as the official makes his decision. What starts in Australia usually filters through to Ireland.
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