Scrummaging Law Change Case Study - Christian Day

Last week, World Rugby announced they were going to be trialling a new law during the Six Nations to address a scrummaging technique. 
The RPA Head of Player Affairs Christian Day has been leading on this on behalf of our members, and here he explains what it is all about

 

The issue of axial loading was brought forward to the RPA as an unintended consequence of the crouch – bind – set sequence. Whilst the evolution of the modern scrum has worked remarkably well in reducing the kind of catastrophic spinal injuries that the game must make every effort to remove, this new issue of axial loading required decisive action.

Whilst the cause of the issue is well known to those who experience it, the issue of axial loading is both difficult to see, and to prevent. This latest trial being introduced by World Rugby comes as a welcome initiative to further alleviate the pressures being experienced by modern day hookers.

RPA member feedback has been extensive throughout this ongoing process and we would like to thank our members, International Rugby Players, Premiership Rugby, The RFU and its referees for their support at various points in this journey.

As the game evolves we must evolve with it and advance the welfare provision for our members, and for all rugby players.

To read more, visit the below links...

The Times

International Rugby Players