Cobus Wessels' call influenced the outcome. To an extent

The following from SANZAR: The International Rugby Board has confirmed a change to the Match Official panel for Saturday’s Tri-Nations match between New Zealand and Australia.

Cobus Wessels (South Africa) has been replaced by Keith Brown (New Zealand) as Assistant Referee for the top of the table clash in Christchurch.

Wessels, who will now perform the role of Television Match Official, has been stood down as Assistant Referee 2 following a routine review of match official performance in last weekend’s Tri-Nations match in Melbourne.

The appointment of a replacement Assistant Referee from the Host Union is owing to the logistical and preparation pressures of selecting a neutral official for Saturday’s match and will not be a precedent for future appointments.

The change has also been approved by SANZAR.

• That’s all very good and well, but it still begs the question of, if someone has been stood down due to performance, or lack thereof, then how can they still be allowed to take further part in the next test? What are you thoughts on this?