Changes can improve game

AS we progress through forthcoming Six Nations and on to the global window of the World Cup maybe now is the time to take a look at how the game needs to take a look at current issues in our game.

Many hard-line rugby supporters feel that the game is becoming boring with constant kick returns, lack of penetration and lateral passing moves that go nowhere other than another breakdown or collisions with the opposite number, our skill sets are no longer a key part of the game. Surely now is the time to consider adding another five yards (metres) on to the offside line to give more opportunities for the running game to return. Rather than concentrate on defence, rugby is about scoring tries not tackling.

Officials must take action over the safety of the players at all times and rely more on TMOS to relay foul play as neck rolls and high tackles continue to be missed, but all should be awarded red cards. Players and coaches will soon learn, which all in turn will hopefully prevent more injuries such as Leigh Halfpenny’s.

Also just as important is for all ex-rugby players in the commentary box to stop giving their outdated and irrelevant opinions on refeering decisions during the televised games. The game has changed immensely since many of them last played with the hits and tackles bearing no resemblance to the game they once played.

Finally instead of continually neutering the scrum and line outs please stop the clock so this part of the game of rugby returns to one of what it should be – a test of strength and stamina and not one of how to delay progress and take a breather, ball delivered straight down the middle, no slipping the bind to the elbow and hopefully the best team wins.