A former University of East Anglia student is set to take charge of the Rugby World Cup final this evening. 

Wayne Barnes, who trained to be a barrister at the Norwich university, will officiate the match between New Zealand and South Africa at the Stade de France in France. 

Barnes, 44, graduated from the UEA with a law degree in 2000. 

READ MORE: Norfolk star Youngs bows out as England's most-capped in World Cup bronze win

Barnes said: "It is the greatest honour of my career to be given the responsibility of refereeing Rugby World Cup final 2023."

Barnes received an honorary degree at the UEA in 2016, which are given each year by the university to honour those who have made an impact in fields such as the arts, sports, science and civil society. 

He became the youngest referee to be appointed to the Panel of National Referees at the age of 21 in 2001. 

Gloucestershire-born Barnes later became a professional referee in April 2005 and is considered one of the world's best.

The UEA alumni admitted he almost walked away from the game last year after his wife and children were subjected to online threats following South Africa's defeat to France which he was in charge of.