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SA Rugby has announced its match official panels for the 2026 season, confirming the country’s top referees and introducing three new members to the National Panel.
New Talent Strengthens the National Panel
The 2026 list remains mostly unchanged from last season. However, SA Rugby added three newcomers to the National Panel: Luvuyo Maceba (WP), Stiaan Marx (Bulls) and Thabiso Mbatha (KZN). Their inclusion brings fresh energy to the refereeing group and signals strong development within the pathway system. Banks Yantolo, SA Rugby’s General Manager for Referees, said he was pleased with the new additions.
“We continue to work with a settled group. Our focus is on creating opportunities for young, up-and-coming referees who still have a long journey ahead of them,” Yantolo said.
How SA Rugby Develops New Referees
Yantolo explained that SA Rugby identifies talent during the SA Rugby Youth Weeks. Promising referees then progress to the SA Rugby Under-19 competition before receiving consideration for the National Panel.
“This system ensures that only the best move through the ranks. The promotions of Luvuyo, Stiaan, and Thabiso show the strength of our development pipeline,” he said.
The national referees panel also includes six dedicated Television Match Officials (TMOs), strengthening decision-making support during high-stakes matches.
Key Changes and New Appointments for 2026
Cwengile Jadezweni, who refereed two Carling Currie Cup Premier Division finals, will join the Referees Department as a Talent Identification Manager from 1 January 2026. His appointment forms part of SA Rugby’s long-term plan to build an elite refereeing system.
The Elite Group includes four referees with Test experience, while two reserves support the group as needed for international and domestic fixtures.
2026 SA Rugby Match Official Panels
Elite Group
Aimee Barrett-Theron, AJ Jacobs, Christopher Allison, Griffin Colby, Marius van der Westhuizen, Morne Ferreira
Reserves: Hanru van Rooyen, Sean Muller
Test experience
National Panel
Angie Bezuidenhout, Caleb Hibbert, Charlwin Daries, Daniel Canhenga, Dylen November, Eon van Zyl, Excellent Mnkomo, Giana Viljoen, Hernus Coetzee, Jonathan Lottering, Juan de Bod, Lulutho Matomela, Luvuyo Maceba, Paul Mente, Siyanda Pikoli, Stephan Geldenhuys, Stiaan Marx, Thabiso Mbatha, Zoe Naude.
TMO Panel
Archie Moko, Ben Crouse, Christie du Preez, Egon Seconds, Marius Jonker, Quinton Immelman.
