MERCI for the French. After a pretty depressing series of internationals last November it was impossible to go anywhere without someone ranting about the way the game had become a boring kickfest without a morsel of entertainment.
In truth, it was difficult to disagree. While there was no change in law, the fact referees were forced by World Rugby to enforce a zero tolerance on players interfering with or blocking the ability of a chasing player to compete on equal terms with the receiver in the air has, perhaps unexpectedly, completely changed the dynamic of the game.
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