World Rugby has confirmed two changes to tackle laws ahead of the Autumn Internationals, with new rules coming into force this weekend.
The governing body has moved to crack down on dangerous tackling techniques, with hip-drop and knee-drop tackles both targeted.
The changes come just days before England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland begin their November campaigns.
Players could now face penalties, yellow cards or red cards for tackles that previously lacked specific guidance.
Two dangerous tackles targeted
1. Hip-drop tackles
From 1 November, hip-drop tackles will be explicitly outlawed under Law 9.13.
The technique involves a defender swinging around a ball carrier before dropping their bodyweight onto the opponent's legs.
Offenders will face at least a penalty, with yellow or red cards possible for more dangerous incidents.
2. Knee-drop tackles
World Rugby has also issued new guidance on knee-drop tackles.
This involves a defender dropping to one or both knees before attempting to tackle an opponent.
The technique was already covered under existing laws, but officials have been instructed to enforce them more consistently.
The guidance came into effect on 5 October.
World Rugby explains decision
World Rugby chairman Brett Robinson defended the changes, pointing to growing concerns over player welfare.
"Once we looked at the evidence, it was clear the hip drop tackles whilst rare, could cause significant leg injuries. It was also clear that knee drop tackles were on the rise."
Former Ireland international Rob Kearney also backed the decision.
"While a change of this nature can be challenging to manage in the short term as players, coaches and match officials adjust, this decision has been taken to protect players from potential serious injury, and that's the right thing to do."
The changes follow research commissioned after February's Shape of the Game meeting.
Full details are available in World Rugby's official announcement.
Steve Smith's verdict: Why wait?
I'm completely behind World Rugby's decision to outlaw these tackles. Anything that reduces the risk of serious injury has to be welcomed.
But there's one thing I can't get my head around.
Why on earth didn't they introduce the hip-drop ban immediately?
World Rugby approved the amendment on 28 September. It was announced on 7 October. Yet players have had to wait until 1 November for it to come into force.
That's ridiculous.
We're constantly told player welfare is rugby's number one priority. So why leave a gap between deciding a tackle is dangerous and officially outlawing it?
I understand coaches and referees need time to prepare. But surely protecting players should come first.
World Rugby deserves credit for making the change. I just can't understand why it wasn't introduced straight away.
