World Rugby have introduced new law changes, one of them being that teams will no longer be able to scrum when awarded a free kick.
The Springboks will no longer be able to opt for a scrum when awarded a free kick. Picture: Juan Jose Gasparini/Gallo Images
This will directly impact teams with powerful set-pieces, such as the Springboks, who’ve often opted for a scrum when awarded a free kick. Rassie Erasmus’ team, thanks to their all-powerful scrum, have used the tactic to win scrum penalties. World Rugby said removing the scrum as an option would encourage teams to play on by tapping the ball or kicking it, thus speeding up the game.Another change concerns when players are put onside during kicks in open play, meaning anyone offside must now try to retreat, creating more space in which to play for the opposition.
The upshot was prolonged bouts of ‘kick tennis’ which often proved frustrating to watch for spectators.
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