More power for Bok TMO
NEWS: World Rugby has confirmed it is operating an initial closed trial of modifications to the Television Match Official protocol.
The trial was scheduled for the Test window in July, as well as the Pacific Nations Cup, WXV and Under-20 Championship and Trophy.
However, World Rugby confirmed that the South Africa versus Wales and Fiji against Barbarians matches at Twickenham on Saturday will also operate the trial – following requests from the respective unions.
A key outcome of the Shape of the Game conference, under the revised protocol, the TMO will now have the additional power to highlight “clear and obvious infringements” in the final passage of play (from the last restart) to the referee, including knock-ons and forward passes.
Previously, whereby the TMO can only intervene in infringements within the final two phases.
All other aspects of the existing protocol will apply.
The trial will help inform decision-making by the World Rugby Council in November regarding the future iteration of the TMO process in line with the roadmap approved by the World Rugby Executive Board in March.
