Deans plays down ELVs controversy

AUSTRALIA head coach Robbie Deans believes the Experimental Law Variations were “adopted for good reason” and described the consequences of the controversial ‘sanctions regulation’ as minimal.

The global trial of the International Rugby Board’s 13 ELVs began on August 1 and a review will take place from March to decide whether the measures will be adopted permanently from August.

The ELVs have been met with a lukewarm response in the Northern Hemisphere, with many believing the Australian Rugby Union pushed for the trial in an effort to make the game more entertaining and stave off domestic competition from rugby league and Australian rules football.