World Rugby Chief Rejects Joe Schmidt’s Claims Over Controversial Lions Try Decision

The head of World Rugby, Alan Gilpin, has dismissed criticism from Australia coach Joe Schmidt, who questioned a crucial refereeing decision in the second Test match between Australia and the British and Irish Lions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Schmidt Questions Player Welfare After Late Try

In a dramatic conclusion to the Test, Hugo Keenan’s match-winning try secured a thrilling victory for the Lions. However, controversy erupted following a contentious clearout by Jac Morgan in the lead-up to the try.

Joe Schmidt criticised match officials for not overturning the try, suggesting that Morgan’s action breached Law 9.20, which bans contact above the shoulders during rucks. The Wallabies coach said the decision contradicted rugby’s ongoing commitment to player safety.

World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin Responds

Speaking on the Rugby Union Weekly podcast, Alan Gilpin defended the officials’ judgment. He explained that the referee and television match official (TMO) had deemed Morgan’s clearout legal, interpreting it as a legitimate attempt to remove Carlo Tizzano from the ruck, despite apparent upper-body contact.

Gilpin acknowledged the intensity of such high-stakes moments and the pressure they bring but emphasized that decisions must strike a balance between safety and the physical nature of the sport.

Safety Remains a Core Priority

Despite the disagreement, Gilpin reinforced World Rugby’s dedication to player welfare, highlighting its ongoing investment in research, safety protocols, and advanced technologies, including instrumented mouthguards to monitor head impacts.

He said the game must remain dynamic and tough, but also safe and responsible in managing player health, particularly around ruck and tackle situations.

Debate Seen as Vital to Rugby’s Growth

Gilpin concluded by stating that debate and differing interpretations are part of rugby’s DNA. He suggested that these discussions contribute to the vibrancy and engagement of the sport, allowing fans, players, and coaches to remain involved in shaping rugby’s future.

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FAQs

Q1: What did Joe Schmidt object to in the second Lions Test?
He objected to a refereeing decision that allowed Hugo Keenan’s try, arguing that Jac Morgan’s clearout breached player safety laws.

Q2: What specific law was referenced by Schmidt?
He cited Law 9.20, which prohibits contact above the shoulders during rucks.

Q3: How did World Rugby respond?
World Rugby CEO Alan Gilpin defended the officials, saying the clearout was judged to be legal and within the spirit of the game.

Q4: Is player safety still a priority for World Rugby?
Yes, Gilpin emphasized ongoing investment in safety research and technologies like instrumented mouthguards.

Q5: Why is the debate over such decisions important?
According to Gilpin, it keeps rugby vibrant and engaging, fostering open discussion and continual development of the sport.