IRB alter rules to avoid uncontested scrums

The International Rugby Board has opted to implement two changes to the rules regarding uncontested scrums.

The new law states "once all front row replacements have been utilised, and there is a further front row injury, and no fit front row player is available from the original starting team or replacement bench, the injured player will leave the field but may not be replaced".

Teams will also now permitted to have eight substitutes where at least two must be a prop and one a hooker.

"The IRB's Member Unions requested that Council investigate suitable measures to address the issue of uncontested scrums within their own domestic competitions," said IRB Chairman Bernard Lapasset.

"Establishing a protocol that maximises the opportunity for matches to finish with meaningful scrums, while maintaining the highest regard for player welfare and safety, was a critical factor".

The new rules were successfully in France. An IRB sanctioned trial in 2007/08 saw the number of uncontested scrums dramatically reduced to just two in 994 matches in the top three divisions in 2007/08, compared to 145 matches finishing with uncontested scrums during the 2006/07 season.