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Many rugby referees have shown themselves incapable of properly determining who is at fault for collapsing scrums.
Too readily they assume (or are told to assume) that the weaker frontrow is at fault. which is plainly not always so.
Many rugby frontrowers have shown themselves more interested in their own supremacy rather than that of their whole team.
Too readily they become absorbed in their individual contest at the expense of their team, seeing themselves, perhaps, as the Sumo wrestlers of the rugby world!
The current problem was exposed in the last test match between England and Australia (and also in the Barbarians match) where the front row battle was carried out to the detriment of both sides.
It seemed that the measure of success for the England front row was the award of a penalty rather than the production of good ball to either drive the scrum forward or distribute to the backs.
This was not apparent to any great extent in the Super 14 where there was more focus on the whole scrum, not just the frontrow.
I believe that it is up to the members of that secret society, the FRU (Front Rower’s Union), to take matters into their own hands or they will find themselves out of a job.
Those that simply want to win the wrestling match on the field will find that they lose the hearts and minds of the public and the game will move on – leaving them behind.
It would be a sad day when we see the likes of Rugby League ‘scrums’ in our game.
That a dominant frontrow would want to pull a penalty out of the referee does not add up, but it is the nature of the way the frontrow tussle has evolved that the physical dominance aspect has seemed to become an end in itself to some, rather than the satisfaction of providing the platform for a strong pack.
This end is more justified apparently by those who enjoy winning games by penalty goals!
A dominant frontrow should be doing whatever it can to keep the front row up and to ensure that the drive of their forward pack is effectively transmitted (horizontally) to the weaker forward pack.
It is not an arm wrestle.
Their success should be measured by how they move their whole pack forwards – not downwards!
A weaker frontrow should also be doing whatever it can to keep the front row up and to not precipitate collapse as an easy way out – even if going backwards!
The only law change required is that prescribed for collapsing.
If a scrum collapses it should be an immediate free kick (not a penalty) awarded to the team putting the ball in.
In any one game, if fewer scrums are completed and more free kicks awarded, then the dominant front row will have neutralised itself. In the longer term, if collapses become commonplace then the front-rowers may indeed find their physical prowess a liability and coaches will find alternatives.
Yes, I did play in the frontrow – many years ago.
The game was different, to be sure, but I do not recall any great focus on putting your opponent on the ground.
Our enjoyment came from providing a platform for the whole forward pack to succeed. I do enjoy seeing a strong and united pack gain dominance and win good ball.
I do not enjoy seeing a frontrow collapse and one side jump for joy at getting a penalty!
The future of the scrum is in the hands of the ‘FRU’ as much as it is with the lawmakers and referees.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.