New Super Rugby disciplinary rules

NEW DISCIPLINARY procedures will be trialled in this year's Super Rugby competition.

Under the revamped system, referees will be able to refer acts of foul play to a citing commissioner, rather than issue a red card, if they’re unsure of the severity of the offence or who committed it.

The citing commissioner will also be able to issue an 'off-field yellow card', which would be added to a players' record after a game if an act of foul play is spotted during the review process.

The appointment of a judicial officer, who can determine punishments, will limit the need for full hearings.

If a full hearing is required, though, it will be held by teleconference or videoconference.

SANZAR will have the right to appeal the outcome of a judicial hearing where there is substantial unfairness or the penalty imposed is too severe or inadequate.

It will also be able to challenge a ruling where there has been a fundamental error by the judicial officer in reaching a decision.

“SANZAR has long held the view that the disciplinary process could be enhanced to provide for a more consistent and simplified outcome,” says SANZAR chief executive Greg Peters.

“We believe that these changes are an important step in the right direction.”

The trial has been approved by the International Rugby Board and will form an important part of the IRB's own full review of Regulation 17, which governs the disciplinary process internationally.

Super Rugby kicks off on February 24.