The recent launch of World Rugby’s simplified law book, which aims to enhance accessibility and understanding without altering the laws themselves, will go a long way in globalising the game further.
The law book, which can presently be accessed in three languages, is the product of almost two years’ work by a specialist group.
The result is a law book that is more logically laid out, clearer in its explanations and, with various repetitions and contradictions removed, 42 percent shorter than the current version.
World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont said: “As our game continues to grow around the world, we continue to strive to make the sport as accessible to all.
“The laws can be difficult to understand for new participants and fans and the new law book goes a long way towards simplifying it and making it easier to understand for players, coaches, referees and the viewing public.
“This project has been a truly collaborative effort with every union given the opportunity to contribute.
“I’d like to thank them and the working group for their full commitment to an extensive and important process. I believe what they have produced will make a big difference to the game as we seek to make rugby even more accessible to all.”
Sub-sections on the interaction between the referee and assistant referees and the global law trial for the television match official make for sound reading.
Betway’s interview with former international referee Ed Morrison epitomises how rugby has moved with the times with VAR – and how football should do the same.
The simplified law book contains plenty of insight on match officials, including the principle clause: ‘Every match is under the control of match officials who consist of the referee and two touch judges or assistant referees. Additional persons, as authorised by the match organisers may include the reserve referee and/or reserve assistant referee, the television match official, the time-keeper, the match doctor, the team doctors, the non-playing members of the teams and the ball persons.
‘Assistant referees and touch judges are responsible for signalling touch, touch in-goal and the success or otherwise of kicks at goal. In addition, assistant referees provide assistance as the referee directs, including the reporting of foul play.’
The Law Simplification Group comprised Mark Harrington (World Rugby Head of Technical Services and club head coach), Tappe Henning (Scottish Rugby Union Referee Manager and former international referee), Dr Ross Tucker (sports scientist), Rod Hill (former New Zealand Rugby Referee Manager), Chris Cuthbertson (Chairman RFU Laws Committee), James Fitzgerald (former World Rugby Media Manager and former international referee), Adam Pearson (web designer/illustrator).
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