Under-fire Australian rugby referee Paul Marks has avoided the axe following his controversial performance in the Super 14 last weekend.

Marks has been roundly criticised for his performance in the 13-13 draw between the Hurricanes and Sharks in Wellington last weekend.

He failed to consult the third match official in the final act of the game when the Hurricanes had grounds for either a try or a penalty try.

However, SANZAR Friday released its referee appointments for rounds 10-12 of the competition and Marks' name appears twice.

He will control next week's match between the Bulls and Highlanders in Pretoria, as well as the week 12 fixture between the Cheetahs and Highlanders in Bloemfontein.

Australian Rugby Union referees' manager Peter Marshall this week said Marks should not be demoted for his performance, believing one bad decision shouldn't overshadow the overall performance.

The SANZAR referee selectors are New Zealander Glenn Wahlstrom, Australian Wayne Erickson and South African Arrie Schoonwinkel.

Their selections are partly-based on the reports of referee assessors.

Marks' performance at Wellington was assessed by Hamilton-based official Kim Eichmann.

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