Former referee Wayne Barnes recounts his terrifying encounter with Martin Johnson

Record-breaking rugby referee Wayne Barnes has ranked some of the trickier players he had to run the rule over down the years.

Barnes has taken charge of a record 111 Tests, which included officiating at five World Cups.

He showed the first-ever red card in a Rugby World Cupfinal to New Zealand captain Sam Cane for a high tackle as South Africa retained their title.

In his first interview since announcing his retirement, Barnes said he believed social media abuse was getting worse.

Check out the five players he found most difficult to officiate during his career, including a former England captain.

Worst players to referee

#5. Joe Marler (England)

BARNES SAID: ” “He was always a funny one on the field in nice way. You’d be trying to tell him something serious and he’d just want to have a laugh and a joke.

“But he does bring a smile to your face. That is what is unique about our sport, the interaction between players and refs and refs and coaches. It does show our sport off in a good light.”

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#4. Matt Dawson (England)

 During his international career he toured with the British & Irish Lions three times and was part of England‘s 2003 Rugby World Cup winning side. He won 77 caps for his country in total.

BARNES SAID: “Scrum-halves are always the worst, especially Matt.”

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