Gregan will make himself heard

George Gregan will pick his time, but a frosty history with World Cup final referee Andre Watson will not stop the Australia captain from voicing his opinion during Saturday’s clash with England.

Gregan is renowned as one of the most vocal captains on the international circuit, buzzing around the referee and always in his ear.

But Watson, the South African who also took charge of the final in 1999, has very little time for constant pestering.

While running the line during Australia’s semi-final win over New Zealand he was heard giving advice to referee Chris White along the lines of: “Get him out of there, Chris. Tell him to get out.”

But Gregan believes communication with the referee is an important role for the scrum-half and captain to take on.

“It made a difference on the weekend,” he said.

“I pointed out a few things and low and behold at the next breakdown he spotted it and gave a penalty.

“Obviously, that is positive for the team. If you keep quiet he is going to keep getting it wrong.

“I think every half-back talks to the ref. At the end of the day you try to point out various aspects. But you have to pick and choose the time.

“There are certain ways you have to go about talking to him (Watson).”

Gregan had a falling out with Watson during a Super 12 match between the ACT Brumbies and the Otago Highlanders in Dunedin two years ago, when Watson told Gregan: “Don’t you ever speak to me like that ever again.”

Gregan admitted he was a bit out of line on that occasion but insisted his relationship with Watson had thawed out since.

“I have been refereed by Andre for I don’t know how long now – Super 12, Super 12 finals, World Cup finals.

“There is a certain way of talking to the referees. They communicate it before the game and through the game.

“Now they are all miked up, it is not as easy as it was in the past. You have to approach them and ask if you can have a chat.

“I respect that. That have been very good this World Cup in letting the captains have their say.”

Wallabies coach Eddie Jones predicted Gregan would have no problems with Watson on Saturday.

“I think, frm our perspective, George’s relationship with referees has been first-class during the tournament,” he said.

“He hasn’t experienced any problems and I expect he and Andre will have that same good relationship on Saturday night.

“I think George’s captaincy has been exceptional. He has led the side well and his rapport with the referees has been very good.”