WANDERERS whistler Graham Knox is counting down the hours until his biggest test yet on Saturday.

The Greenock club"s referee has been selected to officiate at the forthcoming International Rugby Board World Cup qualification match between Germany and Georgia.

Knox, a former stand-off and captain of the Wanderers, has excelled as the man in the middle since his playing days finished.

He has already been fast tracked into the senior refereeing panel in Scotland, officiating Premiership matches in Scotland as well as receiving assignments in England and throughout Europe.

Saturday"s match represents another impressive notch on an ever-growing cv for the talented ref.

Knox told the Tele: 'I"m naturally delighted to be awarded my first international match and I"m looking forward to the occasion very much.

'I actually found out a few weeks ago, but because of the position you are not allowed to tell too many people prior to kick-off.' The Greenock whistler warmed up for his trip by officiating at the English National League Division 1 match between Rotherham and Cornish Pirates.

There, he received a glowing report from RFU representatives dispatched to monitor his performance.

Wanderers president Dougie Sloan said: 'We are all delighted for Graham and his achievements make us all proud at the club.

'He is a great ambassador for Wanderers and we wish him a safe journey and a good match.' Knox is only the second club member ever to be appointed to referee an international rugby match in the Greenock club"s distinguished 136-year history.

Wanderers stalwart Eddie Murray"s outstanding contribution to refereeing was also rewarded in 1996 by his appointment as match official for the England v Ireland game at Twickenham.

He also got the nod to officiate the Argentina v South Africa match in Buenos Aires.