Better Rugby Rules

Source: Henry backs greater use of technology in officiating

All Black coach Graham Henry is backing an increase in the use of technology, including a greater use of TV replays, in deciding on contentious refereeing calls.

The IRB has overnight granted South African officials their approval to increase the powers of the TV match official in their Currie Cup competition.

At present the TMO is only allowed to rule on the grounding of the ball.

But the IRB’s decision will now let the TMO rule on forward passes, knock-ons and other transgressions before the ball has gotten over the opposition try-line.

“I think it is a major problem with the game at the moment. And we just need to try and get those things right.”

The increased powers to be used in the Currie Cup mirror those that are used in the NRL league competition.

My Comments: About time, you cant have millions of people around the world witness a shocking call by the Ref when it could so easily be resolved by a few minutes looking at the TV replay. All Blacks vs France RWC 2007 forward pass was a shocker and a bad mark against the world wide rugby union reputation. I do agree that the TMO can’t resolve all issues and nor should it, just the 5 pointers is good enough !