Ben Thaler to referee Challenge Cup final
Tuesday 25 August 2015 15:11, UK
Ben Thaler has been appointed as referee for Saturday's Ladbrokes Challenge Cup final at Wembley.
Thaler, who will turn 34 on Sunday, will be officiating in his first major final when Leeds Rhinos take on Hull KR.
The appointment of West Yorkshire-based Thaler, who refereed his first professional match at the age of 19, breaks the run of Wembley appearances by Richard Silverwood and Phil Bentham, who were in charge of the previous five finals between them.
Thaler said: "To referee at a stadium like Wembley is the pinnacle for any referee in sport.
"No matter what game I am working at, from League 1 through to large events like this, I always approach them in the same professional manner.
"It's a huge occasion and I'm sure Hull KR and Leeds will put on a great show."
Silverwood and James Child have been named as video referees for the final.
