World Rugby Confirms No New Law Changes Following Annual Summit
World Rugby has officially confirmed that no new law changes will be introduced following the conclusion of the annual Shape of the Game summit. This announcement comes despite ongoing discussions and concerns surrounding recent adjustments to the rulebook, particularly regarding contestable high balls and the potential depowering of scrums.
High Ball Rule Changes Remain Unaltered
Previous modifications to the regulations surrounding contestable high balls have significantly altered gameplay dynamics. Under the current rules, the player attempting to collect a high ball is now less protected, as teammates are prohibited from escorting opponents. Any infringement of this rule results in a penalty, creating a more open and competitive aerial contest.
Irish wing James Lowe commented on the impact of these changes, noting that they have "brought a bit of a different dynamic to the game." World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin addressed the issue directly, stating, "Those changes have obviously made more of a contest for the ball in the air. Player safety is still vital in that space so we’re going to remain vigilant around the safety aspect and what that contest in the air looks like. But there’s been a broad appreciation for the changes, the players have adapted brilliantly, and it’s opened up space in the game, so there’s no desire to change anything."
Scrum Depowering Concerns Addressed
Separately, the French Rugby Federation has expressed significant worries over the potential depowering of scrums, with reports suggesting that Australia and New Zealand were in favour of minimising their influence in matches. However, World Rugby chair Dr Brett Robinson moved to allay these fears, emphasising that no such discussions took place during the summit.
Robinson clarified, "There’s be in no way any discussions about depowering the scrum. The principles of contest, and the primacy of contest is everything; the principles of all body shapes and sizes being able to take part. We had John Eales in the room this week towering over people, and we need a game that enables us all to be able to participate. That contest is at the heart of things."
Focus on Fan Experience and Law Application
During a wide-ranging press conference held as part of the Shape of the Game week, Gilpin and Robinson outlined the summit's key outcomes. A primary agreement was reached to place greater emphasis on enhancing the fan experience and ensuring better alignment in the application of laws by officials across all levels of the sport.
Other important topics of discussion included strategies to better celebrate rugby and to continue fostering the growth of the women's game. Robinson elaborated on the overall sentiment, saying, "The feedback from around the world is that the game on the field is broadly in a positive place. We’ve been guilty in the past of being too keen to play and tinker with laws. The message this week is to focus on better explaining, selling and celebrating our sport in what is an ever more competitive environment."
He further emphasised the sport's strengths, adding, "Our heritage and our values are strengths, and so too is our capacity to innovate. By continuing to enhance the rugby experience – how we present the game, how we tell our stories, how we connect with fans and how we protect our players – we will futureproof the sport and unlock even greater global relevance and value."
The summit's conclusions underscore a strategic shift towards stability in the laws, prioritising consistent officiation and fan engagement over further regulatory adjustments. This approach aims to maintain rugby's core principles while adapting to modern competitive demands.
