- World Rugby framework provides a logical, step-by-step approach to bring consistent, accurate and objective outcomes
- Enhances concussion prevention commitment
- 76 per cent of concussions occur in the tackle
- Immediate introduction for any new competitions – mid-term competitions can decide whether to start immediately or next time
World Rugby has issued a new law application guideline around the refereeing – and subsequent sanction decision-making process – of high tackles and shoulder charges.
As part of the global game’s bid to eliminate concussion, the new framework will attempt to bring consistency to the refereeing of these scenarios.
The ‘decision-making framework for high tackles’ was developed by World Rugby in partnership with the union and competition delegates who attended a player welfare symposium in France in March. Those delegates included players, coaches, match officials and medics.
Step-by-step process
The outcome is a simple guide with the purpose of:
- Improving the consistency in application of on-field sanctions by distinguishing between dangerous tackles that warrant a penalty, yellow card or red card
- Supporting protection of the head of both players by consistently and frequently sanctioning the tackle behaviour that is known to be the highest risk
The process – outlined in the video below, or by clicking on the picture above – focuses on:
- the source of direct contact to the head,
- the degree of force and,
- any mitigating or aggravating factors that may be applied
It will be a useful tool for coaches, players, match officials, media and fans. It provides a fresh emphasis for future decision-making and does not retrospectively judge previous decisions.
Immediate implementation
This comes into effect immediately for all World Rugby competitions (including the World U20s championship which is also using a post-game review high tackle warning system) and international matches with competitions currently in progress, deciding whether to implement it immediately or at the beginning of the next competition season.
Injury prevention paramount
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said, “As a sport, we continue to put injury-prevention at the heart of all our decisions. The decision-making framework for high tackles reflects that commitment. It is not a law change, but a provides a step-by-step guide for match officials with the objective of reducing the risk of injury through stronger and more consistent sanctioning of high-risk tackle behaviour.
“We are on an important and bold journey that will take the commitment and support of everyone in the game. I would especially like to thank the competitions and unions for their full collaboration in this important process.”
World Rugby Rugby Committee Chairman John Jeffrey added, “This is an important player welfare and educational tool for the global game. The framework will benefit everyone in the game, not just match officials, and will set the standard that is expected from match officials when considering a high tackle or dangerous shoulder charge.”
