Famous former rugby referee Nigel Owens has called for a clearer definition of red card rules in rugby, particularly in light of the recent introduction of the 20-minute red card in Super Rugby. This rule allows a player sent off to be replaced by a substitute after 20 minutes, a law variation that SANZAAR hopes to adopt globally.
Calling the move a “kneejerk reaction” that doesn’t tackle the core issue, the 52-year-old Owens explained, “We need to sit down and really look at exactly what is a red card. If something is completely accidental or careless and there is no recklessness in it, it wasn’t an act of thuggery, then we need to look at why we are giving a red card for something that is unlucky.”
Owens expressed concern over the potential implications of the new rule on player behavior: “We are stuck between a rock and a hard place at the moment where we don’t want to spoil a game by someone being sent off unluckily and his team being down to 14 men. But my question is if someone is very unlucky, then why is he given a red card? So we need to decide what warrants a clear red card.”
Player safety remains at the forefront of Owens’ concerns, as he urged for a more disciplined approach to tackling and clearing out at the ruck. Reflecting on past rule changes that improved safety, he noted, “If you look back at the tip tackle or the recklessness of taking a player out in the air, many years ago referees went really strong, players were sent off, and we very rarely see a tip tackle any more… But, for some reason, we are still struggling with getting the change of player behaviour when it comes to recklessness around clear outs and around head contact in getting those tackles lower.”
Owens also shared his thoughts on the role of TMOs, suggesting that their involvement in the game should be scaled back: “But we are talking about more controversies now with technology than we were before we had it the way it is now… If you use it too much then it does take away from the game.” He likened the presence of TMO support to a tightrope walker with a safety net, adding, “Put a safety net underneath and you are going to go walking across knowing it doesn’t matter if you fall… That’s what I think technology has done.”
Additionally, Owens suggested reducing the number of substitutions allowed in a match to minimize collisions and promote more continuous play. He also called for an end to the goal-line drop out rule, as he believes it hasn’t met its intended goal of reducing close-range attacking plays like pick-and-go’s or mauls.
As rugby continues to evolve, Owens’ perspectives and proposed changes reflect his ongoing commitment to enhancing the game’s safety, clarity, and flow.
