Clarification 2-2025
Clarification in Law by the Designated Members of the Rugby Committee
| Clarification | 2-2025 |
|---|---|
| Union / HP Ref Manager | FIR (Federazione Italiana Rugby) |
| Law Reference | 12 & 9 |
| Date | 17 July 2025 |
Request
We are writing in reference to the very first action of the South Africa v Italy match played in Gqeberha, specifically the kick-off that initiated the game. We have reviewed the footage carefully, and a question has come up regarding the legality of the play under Law 9.7(a), which states: "A player must not intentionally infringe any law of the game."
Watching the dynamics of the restart, we were wondering whether it was carried out in full compliance with both the letter and the spirit of the law. We would really appreciate your view, to ensure a consistent and shared interpretation at international level.
Summary of question
If a team deliberately runs ahead of the ball carrier at a kick off, and/ or deliberately kicked so it doesn’t reach the 10m line, what should the sanction be?
Relevant laws
Law 12: Kick-off & restart kicks
12.5 When the ball is kicked: a. Team-mates of the kicker must be behind the ball.
Sanction: Scrum.
12.6 The ball must reach the 10-metre line.
Sanction: The non-kicking team has the option of the kick being retaken or a scrum.
Law 9: Foul Play: Unfair play
9.7 A player must not: a. Intentionally infringe any law of the game.
Sanction: Penalty.
Clarification of the designated members of the Rugby Committee
Response
The actions seen in this example show an intentional violation of the kick-off and restart laws.
Laws 12.5 and 12.6 set out the sanctions where the ball unintentionally fails to go 10m or a player overruns their teammate at the kick-off/restart. However, if match officials believe this is done deliberately, then Law 9.7a should be applied.