Georgian referee, Nika Amashukeli is set for his debut at Autumn Nations Cup. On November 22 at Murrayfield Scotland hosts France; this is to be the de facto Group B final, as the winner will most likely participate in the tournament final. This match will be officiated by one of the world’s leading rugby referees, Wayne Barnes, while Nika Amashukeli will be his assistant. This will be the first time ever for a Georgian referee to officiate a Tier 1 match at the senior international level, as Amashukeli previously has worked at U20 World Rugby Championship and U20 Six Nations:
“It is an incredible feeling when you are to referee world-class players at such an iconic stadium at a tournament like this,” said Amashukeli, whose joy could not be overshadowed by the pandemic and the difficulties it caused:
“The pandemic regulations cause uncertainty, but these difficulties are nothing compared to the joy of being appointed to Autumn Nations Cup – and what I think is absolutely special is to hit the pitch alongside one of today’s top referees, Wayne Barnes.
“Barnes works close with referees appointed for the Scotland-France match, and we discuss details ahead of the game. From the day of the appointment, we have been in an active contact with each other and exchanged views on various game situations. We are preparing for all the nuances that accompany this match”
Amashukeli’s career ascent began at lower divisions of European Rugby Championship; a few years later, at the age of 26, he has several high-level test-matches and tournaments behind his back, including officiating of Challenge Cup, Heineken Champions Cup and Gunnies Pro 14.
