World Rugby Delays Decision on 20-Minute Red Card Rule
New law trials aimed at enhancing game pace and fan experience set for global introduction in 2025.
- World Rugby has postponed a decision on the permanent adoption of the 20-minute red card rule, which remains under trial during the Autumn Nations Series.
- Four new law changes will be introduced globally from January 1, 2025, to speed up the game and reduce time-wasting.
- These changes include a 60-second conversion time limit, a 30-second setup for lineouts, and additional protections for scrumhalves.
- The revised Television Match Official protocol will give officials more power to identify clear and obvious infringements during critical phases of play.
- Proposals to trial calling a mark inside the 22-metre line at kick-offs and single-stop mauls were rejected due to insufficient support.