EPCR have confirmed that World Rugby’s global law trials will come into place for rounds three and four of the Investec Champions Cup and Challenge Cup.
The tournaments will feature four law amendments aimed at promoting speed, space and contest to “enhance fan and player experiences.”
It is reported that the amendments won’t go into effect in the Premiership this weekend but will do so after the double round of EPCR fixtures.
World Rugby global law trials
The following four World Rugby Global Law Trials will be implemented for Rounds Three and Four including the reduction in the time that kickers have to take their conversions after a try to align with penalties.
Teams will also have a set time to complete lineouts and scrums as well as a ‘play-on rule’ for uncontested lineouts when the throw is not straight.
There is also additional protection for scrum-halves during lineouts, rucks, mauls and scrums.
The controversial 20-minute red cards will not be in place with World Rugby confirming that the trial was not approved for progression, adding that a decision will be deferred to 2025.
EPCR’s statement confirmed that the following four World Rugby Global Law Trials will be implemented for Rounds Three and Four:
1. 60-second conversion limit to align with penalties and improve game pace, which will be managed by a shot clock (where possible).
2. 30-second setup for lineouts will match time for scrums, reducing downtime – which will be managed on-field by the match officials.
3. Play-on rule in uncontested lineouts when the throw is not straight.
4. Scrum-half protection during scrums, rucks and mauls.
Several of the law trials have been tested already internationally.
The lineout throw ‘play-on rule’ did not feature during the Autumn Nations Series but was in place during the 2024 Rugby Championship.
