World Rugby has introduced three significant law changes to accelerate gameplay and increase entertainment value.
Alongside these amendments are trial rules, including a 20-minute red card replacement and a shot clock for scrums and lineouts.
The governing body revised the laws related to offside from kicks in open play, handling of free-kick options, and the elimination of the ‘crocodile roll’ tackle technique.
Key changes include:
- Offside from Kicks: Players will no longer be put onside when the opposition catches the ball and runs five meters or passes it. This aims to reduce prolonged exchanges of “kick tennis.”
- Free-Kick Options: Teams can no longer opt for a scrum from a free-kick. They must either tap or kick to promote continuous play.
- Crocodile Roll Tackle Technique: The act of twisting, rolling, or pulling a player off their feet in a tackle (crocodile rolling) is now a penalty.
The rule changes take effect on July 1, aiming to foster a dynamic game while ensuring player welfare.
World Rugby will trial several other changes, including:
- 20-Minute Red Card Replacement: This rule allows teams to replace a red-carded player after 20 minutes, already tested in Super Rugby.
- Shot Clock: Introduces a time limit for scrum and lineout settings to keep the game flowing.
- Maul Play: Teams will have to play the ball after one stoppage, not two.
- Uncontested Lineouts: Allows continuation of play even if the throw is not straight, provided the lineout is uncontested.
- Scrum Half Protection: Ensures the scrum half cannot be played while the ball is still near a tackle, ruck, or maul.
World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont expressed confidence that these changes will improve the sport’s entertainment value. ‘The law amendments and suite of closed trials will add to the entertainment factor,’ he said, emphasising a comprehensive review of the trials’ success after implementation.
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