BY JOHN DAVIDSON
The RFL has no plans to follow the RFU’s controversial new tackling law, which bans tackling above the waist, without conducting more research.
The RFU has come under fire for its change, to be introduced in July, that affects tackling in the amateur ranks. English rugby union’s governing body says the rule to limit tackling to the waist and below is designed to help reduce head injuries and concussions.
It has been slammed by many union players, fans and officials, including prominent voices in rugby league.
There has been speculation that rugby league may follow suit, but the RFL says it has no intention of making the same change as rugby union without more rugby league-specific data.
“The RFL continues to work on a number of research projects relating to tackle height, in addition to other strands of research relating to head injuries and impacts,” an RFL spokesperson told rugbyleaguehub.com Long Reads.
“Our Regulations and Laws constantly reflect changes in medical and scientific knowledge.
“We have a good relationship with the RFU and work with them in many forums – but the two sports retain significant differences, so decisions relating to Rugby League must be based on research specific to Rugby League.
“Our scientific and medical teams will continue to provide advice that we will act on to ensure any changes prioritise the safety and welfare of players particularly when it comes to the issues relating to concussive/sub-concussive impacts.
“This includes working with other similar sports and also within Rugby League, with the NRL and IRL.”
On Friday Huddersfield coach Ian Watson criticised union’s tackling rule, stating that the 13-man code should not follow suit, while the change has also come under fire from the likes of England and St Helens women’s player Bethany Stott, ex-Wales Rugby League CEO Gareth Kear, former Super League referee Ian Smith and cross-coder Sonny Bill Williams, among others.