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In a update to rugby’s rules, the television match official (TMO) will be able to advise the referee about incidents of potential foul play and will also be able to review up to two phases of play before a try is awarded, if consulted by a referee.
This applies to both hemispheres at the start of each season. Since it was the IRB, I am not sure if this will apply in the upcoming Super Rugby season.
On the surface this is a great idea. Many tries are scored from illegal blocking and holding back players. Also, referees seem to miss a lot of forward passes.
Also foul play can be checked and reported, no more of the ref saying I did not get the number.
This too is great; there are areas to hide.
However, there are three downsides.
The first is obvious, the game slows down while things are checked. Considering the benefits, this is a worthwhile sacrifice.
The second is subtle. It changes the balance between attack and defence even more towards the defensive team. Less tries will be scored because more illegalities will be found.
However there is no equivalent addressing of illegalities/cynical cheating committed by the defence in stopping tries. Too many are missed by the refs.
To address this I believe an attacking captain should be able to go to the video checking for offences that had material effect in the 22.
Any call for review would need to be for a specific offence.
For any challenge to proceed, it must go through the referee who would only refer it if he was unable to be sure of the decision.
I would allow four challenges. If you are successful, then you keep the challenge.
The third downside is one of consistency.
A major issue is that refs do not enforce all the laws so a video ref will be inconsistent with the on-field ref.
However a referee struggles to consistent for the whole game anyway, so this will be nothing new.
Overall, I am for the change but would like the balance between attack and defence addressed in the future.
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.