Former South African international rugby referee Gert Baise, renowned for his role in some of South Africa’s most memorable matches during the 1960s and 1970s, is being fondly remembered for his contributions to the sport following his death on Saturday.
He was 93.
Baise officiated seven Test matches, including the iconic 1974 clash between the Springboks and the British & Irish Lions at Ellis Park – a game that ended in a dramatic 13-13 draw and denied the Lions a 4-0 series whitewash.
One of the most debated moments of Baise’s career came late in that game when he controversially denied the British Lions a try, ruling that Irish flanker Fergus Slattery grounded the ball on Springbok centre Peter Cronje’s leg, awarding a five-metre scrum instead.
Earlier, Baise had awarded a disputed try to English lock Roger Uttley, further adding to the match’s controversy.
The match was his final Springbok Test in charge.
POPULAR FIGURE
Off the field, Baise was a popular figure in Riversdale in the Southern Cape, where he purchased the Royal Hotel and a liquor store in 1980.
He chronicled his life and career in his 2015 autobiography, titled Mister Ref.
Baise remains a respected figure in South African rugby history, remembered both for his decisive officiating style and the lasting impact he made on the game during a golden era of the sport.
Baise leaves behind a son and a daughter.
Gert Baise’s international refereeing career:
| Date | Opponent | Result | Venue |
| 22 July 1967 | France | Won 16-3 | Free State Stadium |
| 29 July 1967 | France | Lost 19-14 | Ellis Park |
| 8 June 1968 | British Lions | Won 25-20 | Loftus Versfeld |
| 13 July 1968 | British Lions | Won 11-6 | Newlands |
| 16 Aug 1969 | Australia | Won 16-9 | Kings Park |
| 8 June 1974 | British Lions | Lost 12-3 | Newlands |
| 27 July 1974 | British Lions | Draw 13-13 | Ellis Park |
