Ex Ireland Star Worries New Law Could See End Of Some Rugby Stars

While the sport of rugby is constantly evolving, it can be debated whether all of the changes at the top level of the sport are actually beneficial. The laws of the game are always being adjusted, with some alterations have a major impact.

A good recent example came with the clampdown on escort defenders.

Players are no longer allowed to block the path of an opposition kick-chaser, being punished if they obstruct them in any way. This had led to far more aerial contests in the sport, something that not everyone is in favour of.

Ex Ireland Star Worries New Law Could See End Of Some Rugby Stars

Ireland international Ross Byrne, who now plays for English club Gloucester, feels that the new rule has resulted in the sport becoming somewhat repetitive.

Speaking ahead of his side’s clash with Munster this weekend, Byrne also suggested that the law could lead to some fairly drastic changes in player positioning (h/t Irish Times).

Unfortunately I think it’s changed how everybody plays. Everybody knows the stats: because of the new rules whoever kicks the ball is most likely to get it back.

If those are the stats, which the top teams generally tend to follow, why would you not kick the ball?

If I was a head coach of a country right now and the World Cup’s in two years, you’re going: ‘OK, is there anyone who’s 19, 20, a second-row or back-row who’s a really good athlete? Can we make him into a winger in two years? Go chase some kicks?’

Genuinely, why would you not do that?..

Now, we just need a couple of kickers and a load of good athletes to chase the ball. Do we need those small, silky backs any more? I don’t think so. Why would we?

As is always the case with rugby, it is likely that the authorities will counteract this law in some way if it becomes too influential on the game.

For now, teams will just have to deal with its application moving forward.

Ex Ireland Star Worries New Law Could See End Of Some Rugby Stars

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