Folau ban could lead to law change – Powell

AUSTRALIA star Israel Folau has received a one-match ban in an episode that some believe could change the game’s laws.

The full-back was sent to the sin bin during last weekend’s defeat to Ireland in Sydney after it was deemed he brought down Peter O’Mahony dangerously in an aerial challenge.

Folau also received a warning from the citing commissioner for a separate challenge, though on both occasions the British and Irish Lion was being lifted by a team-mate.

Folau is set to appeal the decision but if it is upheld, he will miss the Waratahs’ top-of-the-table clash with the Rebels this weekend.

If he does miss some game-time as a result of the ruling, his Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson believes it could have a significant impact on the sport as a whole.

“I believe if he does get some time, there’s some real implications around the law-making process going forward,” he said before the ruling.

“It really makes us look at the kick contest area and exactly how we can provide a law that provides for what is happening in terms of the collisions and guys landing on their heads.”

There were also concerns that the suggested implications could legislate a genuine aerial contest out of the game.

“I hope it doesn’t because that’s the element of rugby that’s important, that there is a kick and there is a fair contest for the ball,” Gibson added.