Experimental Law Variations - Implementation

Implementation

The following ELVs were implemented into Law in 2009:

• At the scrum, all backs except for the two scrum-halves must be at least 5 metres behind the hindmost foot of the scrum.

• On a quick throw in the ball can be thrown straight or back towards the defenders' goal line, but not forwards towards the opposition goal line.

• Where touch judges are trained referees, they are now referred to as assistant referees, with responsibility for policing the offside lines.

• If the ball is passed or run back into the 22 and then kicked out on the full before a tackle, ruck or maul is effected, the resulting lineout is taken from where the kick was made. However, if the kick bounces into touch, the lineout is taken from where the ball went into touch.

• The corner flag, currently situated where the try line meets the touchline, is now part of the field of play. Under the previous laws, a try was disallowed if a player touched the corner flag before touching the ball down.