Super Rugby Pacific is implementing modifications to the offside regulations in order to inject additional excitement and vigour into the game. The objective is to decrease the frequency of kicks exchanged between teams and promote increased running and counterattacking with the ball. This strategic manoeuvre is intended to provide spectators with a more captivating experience and to cultivate a more dynamic form of rugby.
Presently, the regulations enable players to be set onside from a kick if the ball is passed or if the ball carrier progresses five metres. Nonetheless, this has resulted in an abundance of repetitive kicking between teams, thereby limiting opportunities for an exhilarating and dynamic game. To address this, Super Rugby Pacific will eliminate these two clauses, which will necessitate defenders to remain offside until they are put onside by a teammate who has advanced from behind the kicker, or until the kicker themselves sets them onside.
According to Kevin Malloy, Chair of Super Rugby Pacific, the primary objective is to develop a game that is enthralling for spectators and enjoyable for players. This decision has been made in response to feedback from fans and enjoys full support from New Zealand Rugby and Rugby Australia. Super Rugby Pacific is focused on creating a game that transcends a mere territorial battle through kicks, by offering teams the opportunity to counterattack with the ball in hand.
The objective is to prevent teams from exploiting a loophole that has resulted in a significant number of players remaining stationary while kicks are made, resulting in what some have labelled as “kick tennis.” The emphasis has now shifted to promoting exhilarating, attacking rugby by generating increased opportunities for teams to counterattack with the ball.
This alteration has received approval from World Rugby as a trial during the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season. Stakeholders are confident that this amendment to the law will pave the way for a more exhilarating and fast-paced brand of rugby that will capture the interest of spectators.
In essence, the aim is to offer spectators a more dynamic and entertaining experience, while affording players the opportunity to showcase their capabilities and athleticism. With the adjustments made to the offside laws in the forthcoming 2024 season, Super Rugby Pacific is poised to deliver an electrifying and action-packed competition. Do not miss the Super Round 2024 in Melbourne from March 1-3 and secure your tickets now for an unforgettable rugby experience!