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Super League option firms for Matt Cecchin

English administrators have embraced the prospect of Australian referee Matt Cecchin continuing his career in Super League.

NRL referee Matt Cechhin (R) speaks to Cameron Smith
Referee Matt Cecchin is considering a switch to the English Super League after he leaves the NRL. (AAP)

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Source: AAP


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Super League officials insist Australian referee Matt Cecchin would be a welcome addition to the English competition.

Cecchin, who will referee his 300th first grade game on Sunday, announced this week he planned to leave the NRL after almost two decades.

The 44-year-old said he had been a constant target of abuse from fans and his family had received death threats.

But he left the door ajar for a move to England and, according to Australian reports, would be highly sought-after because of his experience.

"Matt is clearly a top-quality referee and, if he wants to referee in our competition - and that improves the refereeing standard in our competition - then we would absolutely welcome and embrace it," Super League chief executive Robert Elstone told the Sydney Morning Herald.

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"With those credentials, we'd be looking to give Matt that opportunity.

"He is someone we would very naturally support and embrace. It would be great."

Cecchin will become the seventh official to referee 300 NRL games when he takes control of the Penrith-Canberra clash on Sunday.

Aside from two NRL grand finals and four State of Origin games during a decorated career, Cecchin has also refereed a Super League fixture.

He was in charge of the Wigan-Hull FC clash when they met in Australia at the start of the season.


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