Shayne Hayne will become just the fourth referee to officiate 300 first grade games at the highest level in Friday night’s Telstra Premiership Finals Series match between the Rabbitohs and Storm at ANZ Stadium.
Hayne will join Bill Harrigan (393), Col Pearce (343) and Steve Clark (314) in the ‘300 club’.
“The significant contribution Match Officials make to the success of Rugby League should never be underestimated,” said NRL Head of Football, Mr Todd Greenberg.
“This is Shayne’s 13th season in the top grade. It is a remarkable achievement and his list of honours, from Grand Finals to Origins and Test matches, highlights the outstanding service he continues to give the game.”
NRL Elite Referees Performance Manger, Mr Daniel Anderson, added: “Shayne’s professionalism, his dedication and his passion for the game are first class.
“He continues to be a leader amongst our squad and a role model for aspiring referees who seek to reach the elite level.
“On behalf of the NRL’s team of Match Officials, I would like to congratulate Shayne and his family on this wonderful achievement.”
Hayne made his NRL debut on March 10, 2001, when he refereed the Broncos v Wests Tigers.
During his distinguished career, Hayne has officiated in two NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Finals, 12 State of Origins, six Tests, a World Cup, City-Country (2007, 2009) and the Rugby League All Stars (2011).
Hayne has been awarded the Col Pearce Medal as the NRL’s best performed referee on two occasions (2009, 2011) and in 2009 was named the International Referee of the Year.