JOHANNESBURG — South African rugby referee Marius Jonker has retired from internationals. Jonker, who refereed 24 tests and took control of his first international game in 2005, will continue to officiate in South Africa’s domestic competitions.



The 44-year-old Jonker was a referee at the 2007 World Cup in France. His last test was in 2011. The South African Rugby Union says Jonker announced his decision Wednesday after consulting SARU’s general manager of referees, Andre Watson. Jonker says “I have had a highly enjoyable international career ... but the time has come to move on.” — Reuters