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Rugby has increased dramatically as a spectacle over the last couple of years; however the Wallabies-Samoa game reiterated that more needs to be done. While the second half opened up, in what were difficult conditions, the first half saw a large number of penalties and errors – thanks largely to an ill-disciplined Samoan outfit.
One particularly frustrating part of the game and most rugby games is the amount of time being taken up by scrums taking away from the game itself.
Setting up a scrum can take almost an entire minute of play. In England, the situation has led to broadcasters issuing a ‘scrum clock’, which, knowing northern hemisphere-style rugby, means a large period of the game is lost to collapsed scrums and resets.
‘Scrum Improvement’ is in constant discussion. In fact, there is talk of removing the ‘hit’ – where opposing teams come together instead.
According to the head of referees, Paddy O’Brian, this could occur sooner than thought, considering that no new rules need to be applied and that it is merely a reapplication of the old rules.
Including such a notion means that my idea for scrummaging has the potential to work.
What if you issued a scrum clock, with a set period of time to pack the scrum. The team with the ball has say, 20 seconds to get up, pack and get the ball into the scrum.
This would ensure that time spent scrummaging is minimised. There is therefore less emphasis on perfect technique to maximize power to get over the advantage line and therefore the possibility of a reset is reduced.
I also think it would make scrums safer. Above all, it would stop me swearing at the television.
What do you think, Roarers?
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.