Power play rule will lift contests

A NEW power play rule will be introduced to the FNB Varsity Cup and Shield rugby competitions next year.

It is aimed at encouraging coaches to employ exciting, attacking tactics while fostering a generation of dynamic and adjustable rugby players.

The team calling the power play may remove any two nominated backline players from the opposition for a period of three minutes of playing time.

It can only be called by a team while in their own half, must be called by the captain, and can only be called once.

If the team whose players have been removed score a try during the power play period, it will be worth seven points.

The first priority of the Varsity Cup Board, when it comes to rule changes, is to encourage attacking rugby, to which this rule will lend itself.

“Yellow and red cards are such integral aspects of rugby, yet players and coaches worldwide struggle to deal with the change in personnel,” Varsity Cup chief executive Duitser Bosman said.

“This innovative new rule will foster a generation of rugby players who will be able to defend with fewer teammates on the field and will know how to fully utilise a numerical advantage.”

The rule will allow tactically strong coaches to employ robust new strategies.

University of Western Cape coach and 1995 Rugby World Cup-winning wing Chester Williams believes the power play rule will bring an exciting new edge to the competition.

“It will be good for players, coaches and, most of all, spectators as it keeps the game fresh. It will keep the game fluid and allow for some innovative thinking from coaches.”

The Varsity Cup will kick off on January 29 when title-holders University of Pretoria take on University of Free State at the Tuks Stadium.

The Varsity Shield will begin on February 19.