world rugby took a crucial step for the future of the sport by announcing the global implementation of a series of new rules that were successfully tested in competitions such as the Rugby Championship and the Pacific Nations Cup.
These modifications, designed to improve game dynamics and reduce interruptions, will be made official worldwide in 2025 after approval by the executive committee.
The main objective of these changes is to promote faster and more attractive rugby for players and fans.
The new rules include the reduction of the time to kick conversions and the obligation to form scrums and lineouts in a maximum of 30 seconds, which accelerates the pace of the matches.
In addition, adjustments are introduced such as the “mark” in the 22 meters and the limitation of a single stop for the maul, to make the game more fluid. Greater protection will also be incorporated for the scrum-half in formations, rucks and mauls, improving safety without sacrificing continuity of play.
The pilot tests demonstrated positive results and according to world rugbyball-in-play time increased by more than two minutes per game, and total game time was reduced by several minutes due to fewer interruptions.
On the other hand, greater contestability was achieved in restarts, with a 45% increase in competed restarts, which are now faster and more effective.
Another important aspect is the possible implementation of the temporary red card, which will allow a team to replace a player sent off after 20 minutes. This change generated controversy, especially in Europealthough world rugby continues with its intention to implement it.
The protocol will also be updated Television Match Official (TMO)allowing referees to detect crucial infringements before a try is awarded.
The president of World Rugby Bill Beaumonthighlighted on the official website, that these rules are part of the program “Shape of the game” and that seek to improve the game experience without compromising its competitive essence.
The new rules will now be consulted with federations before final approval in November, paving the way for a new evolution of the sport, promising to make it more dynamic and exciting.
Source: Ambito
