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 board acknowledged that various new legal revisions, which were tested in some domestic and international contests, had been proposed for
universal implementation.
They include a 30-second scrum and lineout limit, as well as a reduction in conversion time from 90 to 60 seconds.
Scrum-halves will also receive “enhanced protection,” however it is unclear how this would be achieved. However, the goal is to allow the nine to move the ball away
from the ruck and maul with less interference, as well as to “encourage fluid open play.”
The most controversial plans
Those are less contentious, with most agreeing that certain aspects of the game, particularly set-pieces, need to be sped up, but World Rugby has also proposed some
further measures.
One is to allow players to call a mark inside the 22m line during kick-offs and restarts, which the governing body feels would make the game more contestable.
Single-stop mauls, in which the ball must be pushed away after one stoppage, and the elimination of the not straight call at the lineout if uncontested have both been
proposed.
However, the most controversial legal reform, the 20-minute red card, could be tested globally.
Nigel Owens’ suggestion will ‘address’ 20-minute red cards and potentially end argument for forever.
It has received widespread support in the Southern Hemisphere, particularly from Australia and New Zealand, while European countries remain skeptical.
There is fear that it will undermine player welfare by allowing sides to be less negatively impacted by irresponsible activities that could harm someone’s health in the
long run.
With a case still pending against the game’s governing bodies, including the RFU, WRU, and World Rugby, many are concerned about the potential consequences of
implementing anything like the 20-minute red card.
However, World Rugby insists that these legal changes are “aimed at enhancing both the fan and player experience.”
Sir Bill Beaumont, World Rugby chairman, added: “This is another significant step forward for the Shape of the Game programme. As a whole, these trials indicate
our dedication to make rugby as pleasant as possible for spectators while preserving the game’s integrity and competitive spirit.
“The positive outcomes from the trials reinforce our belief that these adjustments will bring lasting benefits to both players and fans.”
According to the governing organization, “the trials will go out to union and region consultation” prior to that meeting, while the merits of the individual statutes are
contested.
As a result, it is not assured that all of the ideas will be implemented, but World Rugby appears to be quite interested in seeing these regulations passed.
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