World Rugby have announced new rules to clamp down on disruption from backroom staff during matches after ruling it was "getting out of hand".
For the first time, teams can be sanctioned because of the actions of non-playing personnel, with sides to now have a penalty awarded against them for indiscretions.
The World Rugby Council has revealed its global trial to limit the number of incidents where non-playing personnel enter the field of play during a match, which comes into force after July 1. A revised protocol is coming in for when medics and water carriers can enter the field to reduce potential interference, and a set of sanctions will be available for "any action that either interferes with play or is against the values of the sport".
