Concussion in rugby: Hong Kong union to consult clubs over trial of ‘belly tackle’
- HKRU to discuss a proposed global opt-in trial announced by World Rugby, in which hits above sternum level would become illegal
- The trial, which would be for the community game and not professional level, has already provoked a backlash in England
Hong Kong rugby bosses are to consult the city’s clubs after the game’s global governing body recommended a lowering of tackle heights across the sport.
World Rugby has said that unions should take part in a global trial for the “belly tackle”, which would see any hit above sternum level deemed illegal, as part of a drive to make the game safer.
However, the trial applies only to the community game, not the professional or semi-professional ranks, which in Hong Kong would exempt the city’s top club tier, the Premiership.
Rugby bosses in South Africa have said they would limit the trial’s introduction to schools and the club levels below the professional provincial franchises.
The opt-in trial, which is subject to World Rugby Council approval in May, is being announced now so that nations can engage in consultation before next season.
If the trial is approved, the governing body will provide training resources, with mandatory tackling technique programmes. And each national governing body will be encouraged to measure the impact of the trial.
