Mark Lawrence (File)

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Johannesburg - Mark Lawrence will referee his second Currie Cup final when he takes charge of the match between the Golden Lions and the Sharks in Johannesburg on Saturday.

The 46-year-old Lawrence, who recently announced his retirement from officiating at international matches, refereed the 2007 Currie Cup final and the 2008 Super 14 Final.

"Mark has consistently been one of the best referees in South Africa, if not the world, and his appointment to the final is just reward for his superb performances," said Andr Watson, general manager of the SA Rugby Referees Association.

"The decision has not been easy as we are blessed with some very good referees who are capable of refereeing finals.

"The performances of Marius Jonker and Jaco Peyper in the semi-finals are testimony to this."

Lawrence will be assisted by Stefan Breytenbach and Christi du Preez. Marius Jonker is the reserve referee, while Johan Meuwesen takes on the job of television match official.