FRU's James Bolabiu is one of the top 13 referees, selected by the IRB to officiate in the IRB Junior World Championship next month in Japan.

This is another milestone for Bolabiu, who has already officiated at the IRB World 7s Series, Tri nations and Currie Cup competition in South Africa.

He is the only Pacific Islander chosen in the 13-man panel.

Meanwhile IRB's referee manager Paddy O'Brien said individual match appointments for the pool stages of the Championship will be made when the match officials arrive in Japan in late May.

O'Brien said the 13 referees selected have Test potential, so this is a huge opportunity for them to shine.