Controversial 20-minute red card among new law trials to feature in the Six Nations

The introduction of the 20-minute red card for technical offences allows teams to replace players sent off, promoting player accountability while maintaining team integrity. Dangerous or deliberate acts still result in a full red card. As part of various law trials for the Six Nations, referees will use microphones to clarify decisions, enhancing transparency for fans. Additional innovations include 'Touchfinder' technology to assist in identifying the ball's position on the field and improved TMO powers to prevent scoring from clear infringements, ultimately promoting faster gameplay.

The 20-minute red card aims to punish the player, not the team, allowing a replacement for technical offences but upholding safety in fouls.

Referees will now explain key decisions in games over microphones, enhancing the viewing experience and engagement for fans in venues and broadcasts.

Read at Irish Independent