World Cup set to use 'bunker' review system for cards

SPOTLIGHT: World Rugby is reportedly set to introduce a review system for upgrading yellow cards to red cards during matches at the World Cup this year.

The review system was trialled during the Super Rugby Pacific season and it was also known as the ‘bunker’ method.

It is currently being used in the Under-20 World Championship in South Africa.

According to The Times in England, World Rugby was pleased with what they saw in the Southern Hemisphere competition and it is now set to be used in France later this year.

When there is an act of foul play and the extent of it is not immediately clear, the referee can show the player a yellow card. The TMO will then review the incident to see if it should be upgraded to a red card.

In Super Rugby Pacific, the TMO was given eight minutes to make a decision. At the World Cup, the TMO will be given 10 minutes.

The goal of the system is to prevent lengthy delays in matches and provide more accurate decisions for foul play.

Match officials will still be able to issue a straight red card if the foul play is clear and obvious.

The report also mentioned that a shot clock will be used for kicks at goal. There will be 90 seconds allocated for conversions and 60 seconds for penalties.