Trademark TJ Perenara reaction after chirpy Fijian Drua half-back baffles referee with confusing scrum call

TJ Perenara couldn’t help but smile after his opposite number was told off by the referee for interrupting his scrum call and appearing to confuse both teams.

League leaders Hurricanes were in Suva facing Fijian Drua looking to go eight from eight when a scrum was set up in their own 22.

As the man in the middle, Paul Williams, tried to get the packs ready, a loud voice could be heard on the ref mic.

Shouting over the referee

That was of Drua scrum-half Peni Matawalu, who appeared to utter something in Fijian in attempt to get his forwards motivated for the battle in the set-piece.

However, it came while the official was saying ‘bind’ and ‘set’, which resulted in the two packs engaging at the wrong time and prompted Williams to intervene.

“No, I think they think you’re calling, so you just need to be quiet okay?” he said. “Guys, if we could keep the noise down so you can hear my calls please. It’s hard enough over the top of the crowd.”

Perenara found it very funny and, as the camera panned to the two scrum-halves smirking at each other, the commentator said: “It’s a great shot of the two cheeky half-backs.”

It may have also reminded the All Blacks playmaker of an interaction earlier in the match where Williams warned Hurricanes captain Brad Shields about the half-back’s constant chirping.

Fine form

After missing the Rugby World Cup through injury, Perenara has excelled this season, helping the Wellington outfit to the top of the Super Rugby Pacific table.

Cam Roigard’s injury was hugely unfortunate for the youngster, who looks set to be the long-term heir to Aaron Smith at the All Blacks, but it has enabled the 32-year-old to re-establish himself as first choice for the Hurricanes.

He has touched down four times in six matches in 2024 and in the process equalled the try-scoring record, which was being solely held by Julian Savea.

Those two will battle for that honour for the rest of the season, but Perenara will be favourite given the Canes’ form at the moment.

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