Change gives Kaplan record

There is a change of referee for the match between France and Argentina at Stade Vélodrome in Marseilles on Saturday.

Jonathan Kaplan of South Africa replaces Steve Walsh of New Zealand who injured his Achilles' tendon in the semifinal of the Air New Zealand Cup and he has not recovered. Walsh will now be the television match official instead of Johann Meuwesen.

This will be Kaplan's 47th Test, making him the most capped international of all time. Up to now Kaplan and Paul Honiss was locked together on 46 Tests. It will take place the day after his birthday.

Speaking on his birthday from Marseilles, Kaplan said: "I am proud and privileged that this has happened to me, but it is just a number. Lots of referees have had longer careers without having as many fixtures. But it is an important number for me - but just for me. The important reality is that there is a Test to referee."

Kaplan was to have set the new record when he refereed Wales vs New Zealand at Millennium Stadium on 22 November 2008. That appointment stands.

On 20 November 2004 Kaplan was the referee when France played Argentina at Stade Vélodrome in Marseilles. On that occasion, Argentina won, the start of their rise that took them to such heights last year.

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