Clarification 3-2018
Clarification in Law by the Designated Members of the Rugby Committee
| Clarification | 3-2018 |
|---|---|
| Union / HP Ref Manager | Alain Rolland |
| Law Reference | 3 |
| Date | 2018-04-17 |
Request
Following an incident in a Super Rugby match we would like clarity on the following situation:
If a player is removed from play for an HIA and that team have exhausted all of its substitutions, is a temporary replacement allowed? If the HIA player, then fails the HIA can the temporary replacement then become permanent?
Clarification of the designated members of the Rugby Committee
Law 3.26 is clear on this matter:
In elite adult matches, which have been approved in advance by World Rugby (pursuant to Regulations 10.1.4 and 10.1.5) for use of the HIA process, a player who requires an HIA:
- Leaves the field of play; and
- Is temporarily replaced (even if all the replacements have been used). If the player is not available to return to the field of play after 10 minutes (actual time) of leaving the playing area, the replacement becomes permanent.
This is also referenced in the HIA protocol and procedures document under the procedures FAQ’s – Question 20
20. If a player is removed from play for an HIA and that team have exhausted all of its substitutions, is a temporary replacement allowed?
Yes, if all substitutes have been exhausted a temporary replacement for head injury is allowed. If a player requires permanent removal following a head impact event, irrespective of the medical room classification, that is immediate & permanent removal or off-field screen, the player who is the temporary replacement will be permitted to remain on the field even if the injured player does not return after expiry of the 10 minute off-field period. To be clear a tactically substituted player can return to play to replace a head injured player, even if other replacements have not been used.
Addendum
The 2017 Law book was also clear on this matter. Law 3.10 – Law Amendment Trial HIA – clause (a). This also aligns with existing blood injury laws in allowing the replacement to stay on the pitch if the injured player fails to return to play.
There was an old version of the HIA Protocol and procedures document which was confusing. Both documents are now fully aligned.