WRU Reaction: Chris White apology

The Wales team clearly thought they had time to kick to touch and throw into one final line out when they were awarded a penalty in the closing seconds. They were stunned when Mr White blew his whistle for full time following their earlier conference with the referee and James Hook’s kick into the Italian 22.

While the “misunderstanding” did not cost Wales the game, it did cost them an opportunity to try to win it.

Mr White was heard by millions of TV viewers telling the Welsh players there were 10 seconds left to play. By the time the kick had been taken, and after consulting with his time keeper, he decided the game was over.

It is nice to see that Mr White, one of the world’s leading officials, has been strong enough to apologise for his role in the confusion and misunderstanding in Rome. While his decision baffled and bemused the Welsh players, as well as the fans watching on television, it will leave no lasting feeling between the Welsh players, coaches and administrators and the English official.

Gareth Jenkins and Stephen Jones made it abundantly clear to Mr White after the game that while they were angered by the misunderstanding that was created at the end, they respect Mr White and will be happy to have him control any future Welsh internationals.