New scrum law to be trialled during Six Nations

World Rugby have introduced a new scrum law to be trialled during the upcoming Six Nations tournament.

The law that is aimed to prevent degenerative neck injuries developing in hookers.

According to a report in the Times, hookers will now be required to ensure that one foot, known as a “brake foot” is extended towards the opposition during the crouch and bind phases of the engagement sequence failing which a free kick will be awarded to the other team.

The move is also aimed to increase stability during the scrum and in turn is expected to reduce the injuries during the scrum time.

“We want rugby to be the best it can be for those playing and watching the game and this trial will enable us to understand whether we can positively impact both game and welfare outcomes during the three Six Nations Championships,” World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin said.

“This builds on voluntary adoption by teams and greater vigilance by match officials in recent elite competitions and we would like to thank Six Nations Rugby and all the participating teams for embracing the trial and we look forward to seeing the results.”