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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Luke McLaughlin

Ross Byrne says escort defender crackdown could see locks converted to wings

Gloucester fly-half Ross Byrne
Gloucester fly-half Ross Byrne believes international head coaches could convert second-rows into wings for the next men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027. Photograph: Simon King/ProSports/Shutterstock

The Gloucester fly-half Ross Byrne believes international head coaches could convert second-rows into wings for the next men’s Rugby World Cup in 2027 to capitalise on the crackdown on escort defenders.

Last October World Rugby instructed referees to scrutinise and punish defending teams obstructing opponents chasing high contestable kicks, a move that has had a profound tactical impact on the elite game.

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