Army Women v Sweden 2023 Credit Alligin Photography Date 08012023.jpg — The new tackle law will see attempts like the above on Bethan Dainton, during the Army's recent match against Sweden, provide debate (Picture: Alligin Photography).

Rugby Union

Rugby's new tackle rule: Will it affect military teams?

The world of rugby union has been in fierce debate since the Rugby Football Union (RFU) announced a law change in regards to tackling due to be implemented in the community side of the game.

Since then, coaches and players at professional teams have spoken out to criticise the change.

But what has been altered and will it affect the military teams?

What is the law change?

During a rugby match, it's often seen as a positive when a player goes storming in with a strong tackle that flattens their opponent.

Players will still be able to do that with the change – but only from the waist down.

The issue of head injury and concussions has been a discussion point in both the amateur and elite games.

This change is designed to improve player safety and reduce the risk of concussions.

Will it affect the military teams?

In a word – yes.

All three service rugby union associations are based in England and affiliated with the RFU.

This means all players, coaches and referees will apply laws laid out by English rugby union's governing body across all levels of military rugby.

While the rule change isn't applying to Premiership teams, military rugby falls into the community side of the sport and, as such, will abide by the new rules.

Whether in training or matches, only waist-down tackles will be permitted.

🏉To support player welfare, RFU Council agreed on Monday 16th January to lower the height of the tackle across the community game (Age Grade & Adult) from 1st July 2023

Find out more about the law change, including rationale, next steps & training support to be provided⬇️
— Rugby Football Union (@RFU) January 19, 2023

When is the first time a military team will have to follow the new law?

The RFU's decision could still be reversed as leading figures in the game complain about the change.

If the rule stays, it will come into effect in July meaning the 2023 Inter Services played at Plymouth Albion, Gloucester's Kingsholm Stadium and Twickenham Stadium could still see above-waist height tackling.

However, from July, all training will change to follow the rules and the first high-profile military matches that will see the difference could be the Remembrance Rugby event in November and the under-23s Inter Services in December.

Service RFUs have declined to comment on the debate.