Lions coach says referee assured tourists he won't be affected by Rassie Erasmus video

The Lions coaching staff ahead of the second Test. Picture: INPHO/Dan Sheridan

The British & Irish Lions have been assured by second Test referee Ben O’Keeffe that Rassie Erasmus’ criticisms of match officials will not affect his decision-making in Saturday’s crucial clash with South Africa.

SA Rugby director of rugby Erasmus broke with long-standing tradition on Thursday when he released an hour-long video online outlining perceived refereeing mistakes by Nic Berry in last Saturday’s first Test and what he described as a lack of respect by the Australian official towards Springboks captain Siya Kolisi compared to that shown towards Lions skipper Alun Wyn Jones.