GIANTS coach Jon Sharp is delighted Karl Kirkpatrick will referee Sunday's Challenge Cup semi-final against St Helens at Warrington.

Kirkpatrick was yesterday named as the man to take charge of Huddersfield's biggest game since they last reached the semi-final 33 years ago (Oldham's Ian Smith is the reserve official).

The Warrington whistler is now regarded by many as the game's best referee.

He took charge of the NFP Grand Final in October 2002, when the Giants beat Leigh 38-16 to earn a place back in Super League.

Kirkpatrick earned widespread praise for the way he handled that contest, and Sharp is confident he will do just as well on Sunday.

"I'm delighted it's Karl," said Sharp. "He's very much the man in form right now, and has been the stand-out for the past 12 months.

"Referees can have a big influence on games, but I have full confidence we'll have a fair crack of the whip on Sunday.

"I also think Saints will be happy with his appointment.

"The RFL have made a good choice."