Following Sam Cane’s controversial red card, which marred the World Cup final, fans are calling for the implementation of the “20-minute red card.”
In the first half of the Stade de France showcase, the All Blacks captain, Sam Cane, made contact with Jesse Kriel’s head with his shoulder.
Initially, referee Wayne Barnes sent Cane to the sin-bin, but upon review through the bunker system, the punishment was upgraded to a red card.
This alternative rule, often referred to as the “orange card,” permits a dismissed player to be strategically substituted after 20 minutes. Nevertheless, World Rugby has officially declared that this rule will not be adopted during the upcoming prestigious tournament.
The idea of the 20-minute red card originated as a trial during the Super Rugby competition, with the intention of striking a balance between player discipline and ensuring teams aren’t excessively disadvantaged by an early red card.
During the trial, a player who received a red card for foul play could be temporarily replaced by a substitute after spending 20 minutes off the field. This tactical substitution aimed to find a middle ground between maintaining a competitive match and penalizing severe violations of the game’s rules.
Despite generating significant interest and debate during the trial, it was ultimately not extended to the Rugby World Cup.
One fan wrote: “Need to get some southern innovation and bring in the 20 minute red card – that way a decision like this wonโt ruin the whole game.”
A second commented: “Red card should be 20 minutes,”
Another said: “A different red card option is 20 minutes off, then a replacement player can come on. Better for the game & offender still suspended etc.”
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NIGEL OWENS DREAM XV:
Fullback: Israel Folau (Australia)
Owens said: “For me, itโs nip and tuck between Halfpenny and Folau, next to nothing to choose between them. Leigh is brilliant because under the high ball and with his kicking at goal under pressure. He may not always break the line when running but puts his body on the line in defence and is a top-notch match-winner.
“But I go for Folau – only just, I should stress – because of his ability to seemingly beat his man every time he gets the ball in his hand. Heโs such an exciting player and like Leigh he is one of the best under the high ball.
“Itโs a toss of a coin for me… and itโs come down in Folauโs favour.”
Winger: Stuart Hogg (Scotland)
Owens said: “How can you fail to be impressed when watching Hogg play. Heโs so exciting as he burst into that line and, of course, was named Six Nations player of the tournament.
“I know heโs a full-back for Scotland, but he is so quick and direct he could easily play on the wing. He reminds me a bit of Shane Williams with some of the things he does.
“When you see who is on the other wing in my team, youโll see how they would work brilliantly in tandem.”
Outside-centre: Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland)
Owens said: “Not only is he one of the greatest centres in the history of rugby union but heโs a fantastic man off the field as well. OโDriscoll has been a wonderful ambassador for the sport and a real leader. He always respected referees and set the right example for others to follow.
“A legend of the game who conducted himself superbly, on and off the pitch.”
Inside-centre: Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand)
Owens said: “Heโs another brilliant player and after every game, win or lose, he would come up and give me a hug. Maโa has always found time at after-match functions or at breakfast if weโve been staying at the same hotel to come over and have a chat.
“What a player, mind, too. One of the stalwarts of the New Zealand side for so many years.”
Winger: Shane Williams (Wales)
Owens said: “When people ask me who is the best player I have refereed itโs pretty much an impossible task to pick one because Iโve been lucky enough to take charge of so many greats.
“But if Iโm pushed, I would pick Shane for what he achieved after coming from football at 17 or 18 years of age.
“He was in the mould of Gerald Davies in how he left defenders gasping for air as he beat them with those dazzling sidesteps. Nobody would fancy defending against a back three of Shane, Hogg and Folau, I can tell you that.”