The Counter Ruck: Rugby’s new laws explained with Owen Doyle

Listen | 20:47
Referee Waynes Barnes upgrades Sam Cane of New Zealand's yellow card to a red card during the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final. Photograph: Billy Stickland/©INPHO
Referee Waynes Barnes upgrades Sam Cane of New Zealand's yellow card to a red card during the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final. Photograph: Billy Stickland/©INPHO

Come July 1st, a number of changes to rugby’s laws come into effect. A number of trials will also be seen over the summer as World Rugby continues to grapple with the balance of preserving the sport’s values and attracting new audiences.

Have they got that balance right? Are they alienating traditional fans? Is there an irreconcilable difference between attitudes towards the game in the northern and southern hemispheres?

Former referee Owen Doyle joins host Nathan Johns to talk through the changes.

Produced by John Casey.