A controversial proposal which allows teams to replace a red carded player after 20 minutes has moved a step closer to global implementation following a World Rugby announcement.
The governing body confirmed that several new law amendments, which have been trialled in some domestic and international competitions, have been put forward for use globally.
They include a reduced conversion time, going from 90 to 60 seconds, and a 30-second limit at the scrum and lineout.
Scrum-halves will also get “enhanced protection”, although it has not been specified how that will be exactly implemented. However, the idea is to allow the nine to get the ball away from the ruck and maul with less interference, and “encourage fluid open play.”
Most controversial proposals
Those are less controversial, with most realising that certain areas of the game need to be sped up, particularly around set-piece, but World Rugby have also recommended some other measures.
One is to allow players to call a mark inside the 22m line from kick-offs and restarts, which the governing body hopes will encourage it to be more contestable.
Single-stop mauls – where the ball must be moved away after one stoppage – and the removal of the not straight call at the lineout if it is uncontested have also been put forward.
But the most criticised law amendment – the 20-minute red card – could be trialled globally.
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It has been well supported in the southern hemisphere, especially from Australia and New Zealand, but European countries remain sceptical.
There is a concern that it will undermine player welfare, allowing sides to be less severely impacted by reckless actions that could harm someone’s health long-term.
With a lawsuit also still ongoing against the game’s governing bodies, including the RFU, WRU and World Rugby itself, many are worried what the consequence of introducing something like the 20-minute red card could be.
But World Rugby insist that these law amendments are “aimed at enhancing both fan and player experience.”
World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont added: “This is another important step forward for the Shape of the Game programme. As a package, these trials demonstrate our commitment to making rugby as enjoyable as possible for audiences, while maintaining the integrity and competitive nature of the game.
“The positive outcomes from the trials reinforce our belief that these adjustments will bring lasting benefits to both players and fans.”
What next?
These law amendments have not yet been ratified but could be approved at a World Rugby Council meeting on November 14.
According to the governing body, “the trials will go out to union and region consultation” ahead of that gathering as the merits of the respective laws are debated.
It is therefore not guaranteed that all of the proposals will be put in place, but World Rugby appear to be very keen to see these laws implemented.
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