Earlier this month World Rugby confirmed that a series of law changes have moved a step closer towards global adoption, and some of these immediately raised serious questions marks.
In particular, World Rugby stated that “a simplified red card process featuring standardised sanctions and the ability to replace a red-carded player after 20 minutes, was also supported after successful initial trials in World Rugby competitions”.
However, this has been refuted by the French Rugby Federation, with that organisation stating that there is insufficient evidence from the four competitions where the 20-minute red card has been trialled.
“For the FFR, the LNR and Provale, the red card is a crucial tool that deters unsportsmanlike behavior and protects the physical integrity of players,” the statement read. “Transforming this sanction into a temporary expulsion could encourage dangerous behavior, thus compromising the safety of players, which must remain the top priority.
“French professional clubs and national team management teams stress the need to maintain a firm attitude towards unfair play. The red card as a collective sanction aims to preserve balance and fair play, and its reduction to an individual sanction would weaken this essential function.
“In addition, this rule would mark an unacceptable step backwards on the measures put in place for several years to reduce head impacts and encourage players to have greater technical mastery in contact.
“Rugby is followed by millions of fans around the world. The implementation of this rule could encourage more aggressive play or create controversies related to the tactical exploitation of the rule, thus negatively impacting the image of rugby.
“Finally, in view of the elements put forward, the FFR will speak out against the entry into force of this experiment of this rule of the game at the World Rugby Council meeting on 14 November 2024.”
According to World Rugby’s most recent statement, previous trials “aimed at enhancing both fan and player experience” have had a positive effect, and these changes are now set to move into the next phase.
The proposed changes, which are being trialled across several international and domestic competitions (including WXV, Pacific Nations Cup and The Rugby Championship), are designed to enhance the viewing and playing experience by promoting faster play, reducing stoppages, and supporting accurate and consistent match officiating.
Law changes recommended by World Rugby to go to global trial
- Reduced conversion time: Conversion attempts limited to 60 seconds, aligning with penalty kicks and quickening game pace.
- 30-second scrum and lineout limit: Scrums and lineouts must be set within 30 seconds, managed by the referee.
- Marking inside the 22m line: Players can now mark the ball inside the 22-metre line from a restart, encouraging more contestable kick-offs.
- Single-stop mauls: The ball must be played after one stoppage in a maul, improving game flow.
- Play-on in uncontested lineouts: Play will continue if the ball is not thrown straight during uncontested lineouts, reducing unnecessary breaks.
- Protection of the scrum-half: Enhanced protection for the scrum-half at scrums, rucks and mauls encourages fluid open play.
Television Match Official protocol
The Executive Board also endorsed updates to the Television Match Official (TMO) protocol, empowering officials to spot clear infringements in the final phases before scoring.
Next steps
The trials will go out to union and region consultation ahead of the World Rugby Council meeting on 14 November. Subject to approval by the Council, World Rugby will work closely with member unions, competition owners and key stakeholders to finalise the timeline and processes for global adoption.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “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.”
Thoughts on these proposals?
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