Rugby is not an easy sport to follow at the best of times and in the last year or so, we have seen several new laws introduced — all with the aim of speeding up the game. It takes a little bit of time for players to adjust to the changes, so I can totally understand why some fans find it hard to keep up with the latest regulations. In fact, I was in a meeting with my Toulon team-mates before we played Harlequins earlier this month and almost all of us had forgotten one of the new laws!
We talk all the time in rugby about growing the game and making it more appealing to new audiences. But to do that, we need consistency. The changes have been made for the right reasons, but constantly altering things could turn some fans away from watching. In the past, when one team kicked clear, the defending team could help ensure the player catching the ball had an easier task by protecting them from opposition challengers. Now, that is outlawed. In the past, if you were box kicking from a ruck, you were effectively just giving the ball away because the rules made it easier for the opposition to collect under less pressure.
The rule particularly suits players like Freddie Steward and Liam Williams who are brilliant in the air. This rule is a big reason why I think England have selected Steward at full-back against Ireland ahead of Marcus Smith. The same applies for Williams with Wales. It also potentially explains partly why Wales have left Cameron Winnett out of their squad.
England's Freddie Steward should benefit hugely from the new ban on escort runners. Liam Williams is another maestro in the air who will be able to go after Wales's kicks now. Increased competition for the ball in the air means you are likely to see more transition between possession and a greater break-up of the game, which should lead to more attacking rugby.
I only wish I was still around to benefit! Scrum-halves are always moaning Greater protection for the scrum-half at the base of rucks, mauls and scrums has been brought in to enable quicker play and lessen stoppages. Danny Care was particularly good at this. Antoine Dupont will be a big beneficiary of this change - not that the France star needs help! Former England international Danny Care would have loved this new rule protecting scrum-halves from pressure.
