IRB to discuss concerns over game

The International Rugby Board will host a conference in Dublin next month to address global concerns over the way the game is being played and refereed.

Leading coaches, referees and administrators from the world’s top 20 ranked nations will debate five key issues which have emerged following a survey of all 117 IRB member nations.

The central theme is “global playing trends” with the delegates to discuss the tackle/ruck area, excess kicking and scrum collapses/resets.

The physicality of the modern game and player welfare is also on the agenda along with the IRB’s current law-making process.

IRB chairman Bernard Lapasset said: “The object of the two-day conference is to take stock of the game and holistically consider global playing trends as we embark upon an exciting and pivotal decade for the sport which includes Rugby Sevens Olympic Games debut in Rio in 2016 and the next three Rugby World Cups.

“The Conference will provide a forum for leading technical experts and playing representatives from around the world to gather to exchange information, discuss playing and coaching techniques and trends, currency of law and player welfare considerations.”

The conference is not a decision-making forum but any recommendations which emerge from the session, which will be held on May 14-15, will be put to the IRB’s committee at their October meeting.

The IRB held its first such conference at Woking in 2007 and a number of recommendations were made, including that a place be found for Argentina in an annual international tournament.

The Pumas are set to join an expanded Tri-Nations in 2012.