Fisher has insight into new rules

NEW Munster forwards coach Laurie Fisher was ACT Brumbies supremo during the 2008 Super 14 competition where 24 Experimental Law Variations were trialled by the IRB.

The IRB decided last May to trial 13 of those ELVs globally from August and it is felt Fisher’s (pictured) knowledge of the changes will prove hugely beneficial to Munster next season.

Some notable changes are: Touch judges will be known as assistant refs and can draw attention to the ref to any incident, particularly foul play.

The corner posts are no longer considered in touch in-goal except if a ball is grounded against the post. In the lineout and throw, if a team puts the ball back into their own 22 and the ball is subsequently kicked directly to touch, there is no gain of ground. Also, a quick throw may be thrown in straight or towards the throwing team’s own line and there is no restriction on the number of players in the lineout from either side (minimum two).

Possibly one of the most controversial law variations is in the maul where players can defend a maul by pulling it down. An Argentinian club player died recently as a maul was pulled down, breaking his neck.

Meanwhile at the scrum, there will be an offside line 5m behind the hindmost feet of the scrum.

However the game is expected to be speeded up with the introduction of free kick sanctions for all offences other than offside, not entering through the gate and foul play. If a player is not releasing the ball after going to ground or holding on in the tackle, it results in a free, not a penalty.

The offside line occurs immediately at the tackle and players on their feet can play the ball with their hands.