Welsh rugby could be set for a massive change with a worldwide trial of “belly tackles” in the community game having been proposed to reduce concussions.
World Rugby’s Executive Board has recommended all Unions participate in a global experiment of lowering the tackle height in the amateur game to below the sternum (also known as a “belly tackle”).
Pilot trials have been conducted in the community game in France and South Africa. These have reduced the number of head impacts and concussions, while also leading to increased ball in flow and more player participation.
World Rugby say research shows situations where the tackler’s head is in proximity to the ball carrier’s body above the sternum are more than four times more likely to result in a head injury.
Several unions have already announced their intention to support the tackle height recommendation, which is subject to World Rugby Council approval.
The Council is meeting in May, but the proposal has been announced now so nations can engage in consultation before next season.
World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “It is important we continue to explore ways that we can make our game as enjoyable and safe to play as possible. The community game is the lifeblood of our sport, representing 99 per cent of our participants, and the proposed tackle height adjustment has already delivered positive game shape and playing experience outcomes in pilot trials – this is essential to the sport’s future.
“The evidence we have, from France in particular, shows that not only does reducing the tackle height make the game safer but it increases numbers playing as well. That has to be the aim for everyone involved in our game.”
World Rugby Chief Executive Officer Alan Gilpin added: “The clear mounting evidence is that doing nothing is simply not an option.
"Specifically in the community game, head-on-head contact is something we need to reduce.
"With compelling emerging evidence showing that a lower legal tackle height means a lower head injury risk, as well as more people playing, we are compelled to act.
“Change can be difficult. We appreciate that there will be sections of the community game who will question this move, but we must not lose sight of the fact that such a change has the ability to enhance enjoyment, reassure parents and welcome many new participants to the sport we all love.
“While this is a community rugby initiative, we would be open to discussions with unions who may wish to explore the possibility of a future closed trial at the elite level which would broaden research data. It must be noted that the elite and community environments are very different, they are essentially different playing experiences and sports.”
In England, the RFU faced a backlash against its new laws for tackles to be lowered to waist height for the English community game next season. It apologised for the handling of the decision and has engaged in renewed consultation.
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