New Zealand’s James Doleman came in for severe criticism from Springbok fans and commentators following his performance in the Test between South Africa and Italy in Turin on Saturday.
Doleman drew the ire of South Africa’s supporters when he issued a 12th-minute permanent red card to Franco Mostert – the second weekend in a row that the Springboks have been reduced to 14 men on their end-of-year tour.
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However, the back-to-back world champions still ran out 32-14 winners.
Doleman was assisted by compatriot Ben O’Keeffe and France’s Jérémy Rozier.
France’s Tual Trainini was the TMO, while another Frenchman, Eric Gauzins, was the Foul Play Review Officer (FPRO).
Soon after that red card, social media blew up with unhappy Springbok fans venting their frustrations at the match officials.
@RugbyRoars
“I’m still trying to figure out what game James Doleman was watching. Italy vs SA or something happening in his imagination? Shocking consistency.”
@BokBlood89
“You can’t have a Test match decided by interpretations changing every 5 minutes. Sort it out, World Rugby. Doleman was all over the place.”
@AzzurriHeart
“Not saying Italy would’ve won… but wow, some of those calls were head-scratchers. Doleman needs a break from the whistle.”
@TryTimeTom
“TMOs sitting there like statues while Doleman lets chaos unfold. Rugby deserves better.”
@CapetownCritic
“Every marginal call went against the Boks. Every 50/50. Every reset scrum. It’s getting old.”
@BlueAndWhitePride
“Italy played their hearts out but Doleman inserting himself into the flow ruined the spectacle. Let the players decide the game!”
@NeutralNico
“I don’t care who you support – the officiating was inconsistent. Period.”
@SA_RugbyFanatic
“James Doleman has now entered my personal Hall of Fame for ‘Refs Who Need a Holiday.’”
@ScrumDoctor
“I coach school rugby and even I’m confused by how those scrum penalties were being blown. Total lottery.”
@TheRuckReport
“World Rugby keeps saying they want clarity. Today was anything but.”
Springboks’ Test record under James Doleman
Doleman has now refereed the Springboks on three occasions
South Africa maintained their perfect record with the 34-year-old in charge, having beaten Argentina back in 2022 and Australia during this year’s Rugby Championship, prior to Saturday clash.
| Date | Opponent | Result | Venue |
| 17 Sep 2022 | Argentina | Won 36-20 | Estadio Libertadores de America, Buenos Aires |
| 23 Aug 2025 | Australia | Won 30-22 | Cape Town Stadium, Cape Town |
| 15 Nov 2025 | Italy | Won 32-14 | Allianz Stadium, Turin |
Springboks’ 2025 end-of-year fixtures and results
1 November: Japan vs South Africa, Wembley Stadium, London – WON 61-7
8 November: France vs South Africa, Stade de France, Paris – WON 32-17
15 November: Italy vs South Africa, Allianz Stadium, Turin – WON 24-17
22 November: Ireland vs South Africa, Aviva Stadium, Dublin – 19:40
29 November: Wales vs South Africa, Principality Stadium, Cardiff – 17:10
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