As we get ready for another exciting campaign, we’d like to share with all our members and supporters some important law changes that will be in place across senior rugby this year.

These adjustments have been introduced by World Rugby to speed up the game, improve fairness, and protect players.

The New Laws

• Conversions – 60 seconds
Kickers now have one minute (reduced from 90 seconds) to take a conversion.

• Lineouts – 30 seconds
Lineouts must be formed within half a minute, just like scrums.

• Not-straight lineouts – play on if uncontested
If the throw isn’t straight and the defending side does not contest, play simply continues. If they do contest, the choice remains between a lineout or a scrum.

• Scrum-half protection
Players who are part of a ruck, maul, or scrum cannot interfere with an opponent within 1 metre who is attempting to play the ball. This is designed to give the number 9 more space and security.

A Reminder About Referees

As always, we ask all players, coaches, and supporters to show full respect to the referee.
Without referees, there is no game. They are there to keep rugby safe, fair, and enjoyable for everyone. Please help us make sure Kelham Road continues to be a welcoming and positive place for officials at every level.

We look forward to seeing you all on Saturday — let’s get behind the lads and make it a great start to the season!