World Rugby dismisses Joe Schmidt's concerns over Lions try

World Rugby has dismissed claims made by Australia head coach Joe Schmidt regarding a controversial moment in the British and Irish Lions' dramatic second Test win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

The Lions secured a 29-26 comeback victory with a last-minute try from Hugo Keenan, overturning an 18-point deficit to clinch the series.

The decisive moment was reviewed by match officials after concerns were raised about a ruck clear-out by flanker Jac Morgan in the build-up. The television match official and on-field referee ruled the action legal, allowing the try to stand.

Schmidt, visibly frustrated after the loss, argued that the decision went against the sport’s ongoing emphasis on player welfare.

“It doesn’t really live up to the big player safety push that they are talking about,” he said, referencing Morgan’s contact with Australia’s Carlo Tizzano during the ruck.

However, World Rugby chief executive Alan Gilpin publicly disagreed with Schmidt’s view, emphasizing the governing body’s commitment to safety while also recognising the unique challenges rugby presents.

“I understand emotions are running high,” Gilpin said. “But Joe knows well, and so do all the international coaches, that we are investing heavily in player welfare.”

Gilpin cited initiatives such as instrumented mouthguards and scientific research to make the game safer, but acknowledged the fine line officials must walk.

“We’re trying to find that really tricky but massively important balance between a sport that is a brilliant physical contest and as safe as it can be for the players.”

He also noted the complexity of rugby’s laws and their interpretations often lead to passionate debates. “It creates controversy and sometimes frustration, but it also gets everyone talking about rugby — and what an amazing game it was.”

The Lions now head to Sydney for the final Test, having already secured the series 2-0. Australia will look to avoid a whitewash, while the fallout from the Melbourne decision continues to stir debate across the rugby world.