Rugby gets a shot clock in fresh moves to speed up game

New protocols from January 1 are a response to concerns that the sport is suffering as a spectacle

Bordeaux-Begles' French fly-half Matthieu Jalibert kicks  a penalty  (Photo by ROMAIN PERROCHEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

World Rugby has issued a number of law directives designed to speed up the game including a 'shot clock' for kickers.

The new protocols that come into effect on January 1 are being implemented in response to concerns that the sport is suffering as a spectacle due to breaks in play caused by the likes of reset scrums and TMO consultations.