IRB Brings In 'Minor Change' To Scrum Protocol : Irish Rugby

In a minor revision to the current protocol surrounding the ongoing scrum engagement global trial, the International Rugby Board has confirmed that referees will use non-verbal communication to indicate to the scrum half when the ball can be thrown into the scrum.

Up to now as part of the scrum trial, the referee has told the scrum half that the scrum is ready for the put-in by the use of the phrase 'yes nine'.

But following an initial review, including consultation with national coaches and referee managers, it has been decided that referees will adopt a non-verbal communication to scrum halves for the introduction of the ball.

This is in accordance with the relevant law (20.5 Throwing the Ball Into the Scrum).

The change is effective immediately and will include this week's Heineken Cup and Amlin Challenge Cup matches in the northern Hemisphere (January 9-12).

It will also include the next rounds of other elite competitions, including the Top 14 in France (January 24), Aviva Premiership in England (February 7-9) and the RaboDirect PRO12 in other parts of Europe (February 7-9).

As with the original protocol, it is up to individual Unions to decide whether this change will be adopted at levels below elite rugby.

Ireland Under-20 head coach Nigel Carolan looks forward to the 2015 campaign and discusses the objectives for his squad this season. There is a strong emphasis on player development at this level which Carolan believes is important in bringing young talent through to the professional game.

The IRFU officially launched a bid to host RWC 2023 in The Royal School, Armagh last week with the backing of the two governments. Check out our highlights from the day.