Former Irish rugby referee Owen Doyle has unleashed a scathing attack on World Rugby's recent trial to not call crooked lineout throws, labeling it an "abject failure" and a "chumminess" that serves no purpose. Doyle, a former Test-level referee, believes this trial is endangering the lineout's future as a contest for possession, mirroring the fate of the scrum. He argues that the rule change, which allows play to continue if the lineout is uncontested, has led to players illegally leaving the lineout to set up mauls, giving certain teams an unfair advantage.
Doyle's critique extends to the relationship between referees and players, describing it as "faux friendliness" that hinders tough refereeing. He criticizes the level of rapport between referees like Andrew Brace and players, suggesting it allows players to over-appeal and give backchat without consequence. Doyle believes this approach is ineffective and needs urgent reform.
The ex-referee also traces the origins of this "chumminess" back to English Premiership referees, contrasting their approach with the more formal style of Irish referees. Doyle argues that this change in refereeing style has contributed to the current issues in the game.
Doyle's commentary highlights the need for World Rugby to address these concerns, especially regarding the lineout trial. He suggests that the trial's failure to encourage fair competition has led to a loss of control over the game's dynamics. Doyle's insights offer a critical perspective on the state of rugby, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the integrity of the sport's rules and refereeing standards.
