New law variations to be introduced in 2023 Super Rugby season

Super Rugby have announced new law variations to fasten the game as the 2023 kicks-off in two weeks time.

The new season kicks-off on 24th February with New Zealand sides Crusaders and Chiefs locking horns with each other at Orangetheory Stadium.

Goal kickers will have 90 seconds to take conversions and 60 seconds to take penalty kicks, while forward packs will have just 30 seconds to assemble for scrums and lineouts once the referee has given the mark.

“We want Super Rugby Pacific to be the most entertaining, innovative and fastest professional rugby competition in the world,” Tournament Director Matt Barlow said in a statement.

“We’ve listened to our fans and taken steps to reduce stoppages and video replays, increase flow and maintain the integrity of the competition and the safety of players in regard to yellow and red cards.

“Players, coaches and referees are excited about these innovations, and we believe they will create a better fan experience both at game and for those watching on television.”

The TMO will be able to interrupt the game when there is an obvious incident of foul play apart from the referees given provision to review sin-bin decisions with the television officials.

Another major change is now the players can be sent-off the field permanently when received red card for any deliberate action of foul play.