The refractory shield assembly comprises: a semi-circular, elongate, metal shield; a plurality of spaced apart anchors protruding from the front surface of the shield; a layer of abrasion-resistant refractory material overlying the surface and extending between and engaging the anchors, whereby the refractory material is held on the shield by the anchors; and means, such as clamps, for securing the shield on a boiler tube. The refractory shield assembly functions to protect the underlying boiler tube from erosion by a stream of hot combustion gas containing particulates.