World Rugby backs much-criticised red card law as series of...

Following a World Rugby announcement, a contentious plan that permits teams to substitute a red-carded player after 20 minutes has

taken a step towards worldwide implementation.

The governing body affirmed that a number of new legal revisions have been proposed for usage worldwide after being tested in a

number of national and international tournaments.

They include a 30-second cap in the scrum and lineout, as well as a reduction in conversion time from 90 to 60 seconds.

Additionally, scrum-halves will receive “enhanced protection,” though it’s unclear exactly how that will be put into practice. But the

goal is to “encourage fluid open play” by letting the nine move the ball away from the ruck and maul with little interference.

Most controversial proposals

These are less contentious because most people agree that some aspects of the game need to be accelerated, especially set-piece play,

but World Rugby has also suggested some further solutions.

In an effort to make the game more contestable, the governing body has proposed allowing players to call a mark inside the 22-meter

line during kickoffs and restarts.

There have also been proposals to eliminate the not straight call at the lineout if it is uncontested and to implement single-stop mauls,

in which the ball must be pushed away after one stoppage.

However, the most contentious legal change—the 20-minute red card—may be tested anywhere.

Nigel Owens’ proposal which will ‘address’ 20-minute red cards and could end debate for good

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.

A legal action against the RFU, WRU, and World Rugby itself is still pending. As a result, many people are concerned about the

potential consequences of implementing a rule similar to the 20-minute red card.

However, World Rugby maintains that the purpose of these legal changes is to “enhance both the fan and player experience.”

Sir Bill Beaumont, chairman of World Rugby, continued, “This is a significant advancement for the Shape of the Game program.”

Taken as a whole, these trials show our dedication to preserving the integrity and competitive spirit of rugby while providing fans with

an entertaining experience.

“The successful trials confirm our conviction that these changes will benefit players and fans in the long run.”

The governing body states that while the merits of the various legislation are being discussed, “the trials will go out to union and

region consultation” prior to that meeting.

Consequently, there is no assurance that every suggestion will be implemented; yet, World Rugby seems determined to see these

regulations through to completion.