Starting from next summer, a bold new rule will reshape the way tackles are approached at the World Under-20 Championship in Georgia: tackles made above the sternum will be strictly prohibited. This decision signifies a significant step toward potentially lowering the maximum tackle height throughout elite rugby.
In recent seasons, a trend has emerged—11 countries have already shifted their legal tackle height limit from the shoulders to the sternum in community rugby. This change stems from a growing concern for player safety and welfare, as evidenced by an analysis of nearly 150,000 tackles conducted since this adjustment was implemented. The findings reveal a promising decline in the incidence of concussions, alongside a noticeable tendency among players to lower their body height when engaging in tackles, responding positively to the new regulations.
Brett Robinson, the chairman of World Rugby, emphasized the organization’s commitment to player welfare, stating, "Player welfare is at the heart of everything World Rugby does. We’ll leave no stone unturned in our efforts to make the game as safe as it can be. However, it’s also crucial that we protect the essence of rugby." He further assured that the upcoming trial at the Under-20 Championship would be closely monitored to ensure that it remains an exciting spectacle for both players and fans.
It's important to note that the new tackle height rule does not apply in specific situations, such as when an attacking player quickly picks the ball around a breakdown or during the act of scoring. Additionally, if a ball carrier leads with their head, they could face penalties, complicating the execution of a legal tackle in various game scenarios. In instances where a tackler makes contact above the sternum but below the head, play will continue, granting an advantage to the attacking team.
This regulation change will also extend to community rugby worldwide starting July 1. While positive feedback has come from England and France, indicating that the law change has enhanced gameplay, a broader review by World Rugby across 11 unions showed only minor shifts in offloads, kicks, and overall game dynamics.
Jonathan Webb, World Rugby's vice-chair and former England full-back, expressed that if the Under-20 Championship trial yields positive results, the next logical step might involve a full implementation of these rules in elite rugby. He stated, "If this is successful and shows good metrics and positive outcomes, the question is whether we take that into the elite game. That’s going to be a monumental decision, and I believe it must be an all-or-nothing approach. However, implementing such changes will be complex, given the faster pace of elite games and the immense pressure placed on players and referees."
As these developments unfold, it raises critical questions about the future of rugby: How will these new regulations impact the gameplay? Will the focus on safety compromise the physicality that defines rugby? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
