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rugbyThe global governing body has said that despite “positive results” from tests conducted in the amateur game, a change to lowering tackle heights at elite level is “too far”.
world rugby It was revealed on Monday that trials involving 11 unions around the world over the past two seasons, which set legal tackle height at the sternum or breastbone, have prompted changes in player behavior at amateur level.
These trials showed an 8–10 percent reduction in the number of honest tackles, with some unions also reporting a reduction in concussion rates.
The new tackle height will now be tested at next year’s World Under-20 Championships in Georgia. An assessment will be made after this test before any possible tests at the specific level can be considered.
Mark Harrington, World rugbyThe Chief Player Welfare and Rugby Services Officer stressed a cautious approach.
“It’s important to emphasize that we are a long way from changing the law at a specific level at this point,” he said.
“However, if this and subsequent trials all show positive results from a player welfare, player reaction and fan enjoyment perspective, then as a sport we need to embrace it.”
Currently, the legal tackle height at the typical level is at the shoulder. However, in the amateur game, it is set to be changed to sternum height from July.
world rugby President Brett Robinson reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to player safety.
“We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to make the game as safe as possible,” he said. He added, “Having said that, protecting what makes rugby rugby is an important part of my role.”
Concussions have emerged as a significant concern within sport over the past decade.
Over 1,000 former players are currently taking legal action against rugby governing bodies, alleging they suffered brain injuries during their careers.
According to London-based law firm Rylands Garth, these players claim that the governing bodies “failed to take appropriate action to protect them from the effects of concussion and sub-concussion during their playing careers, despite knowing about the risks.”
World Rugby, together England‘S rugby football association and this Welsh rugby unionFaces this action.
They said they were looking forward to the full details of the claims and “building a strong foundation of world-leading initiatives.” Rugby Union As safe as possible.”
These initiatives include checking the legal tackle height and introducing smart mouthguard technology.