RWC 2019

Trouble is the 'new' tackle 'laws', their interpretation and use or not is causing this ludicracy. No one, players, coaches, administrators, spectators, know the definitive. I really don't know where this is leading the game to! May be a form of touch rugby.

If it saves world class rugby players & potential stars of the future becoming crippled I’m in, well & truly. My enjoyment of the game in no way comes before the safety & wellbeing of its players. I played & lived to tell the tale, others have not.

Couldn't agree more, R2B. I retired at 40 and during my playing years had several rugby injuries, nothing major, nothing life changing but twice ended up in hospital with operations required as a result. I also put a fellow player and friend in hospital having broken his leg in a 1 on 1 tackle and yes, I went low! 

My concern is the lack of understanding, clarity and the interpretation around the rules and the use of discretion in the decision making process. That question of intent does not reduce risk (no one intent on injuring others should be allowed on the field), even the most careful and rule abiding players are at risk from an unfortunate injury. After all, rugby has today become a collision sport and that's why many of us enjoy both watching and/or playing. Can't wait for more crash balls, big hits but I also enjoy those mazy runs and sidesteps. Such a wonderful game and tournament so far!

Oh, and to add to the confusion 'we' now have to consider the perceived degree of danger when determining an outcome! 

Rugby, best games on't  'erf but where does this all end?

Without a death or a career ending injury I reckon👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻

Thing is R2B both have already happened, several times I'm afraid over many past decades and even during my playing experience but is our beloved sport any the more safe today as a result of the law changes or, to use the latest parlance, is the degree of danger less? Don't get me wrong, I want a safer game for my grandson to play but I also want a decent sporting spectacle and a continuation of that rugby 'familyship' and respect I've witnessed both overseas and at home. I love it and I've not experienced anything quite like in in any other code of football!

I am fully supportive of any change for safety reasons. I have my stance you have yours. Mine is pro player safety regardless of how the game evolves👍🏻. 

Ireland vs Russia looks to be a good game for the Irish. I’ll try to see that one for sure👍🏻

I'm sure we are saying exactly the same thing, R2B. But no one knows at present how the game is evolving, I certainly don't, just hope it's for the better, what ever that is, within 'reason'! And in there lies the 'problem'!

Impressed with the Georgians despite not being able to contain the skills of the Fijians. Must be one of the of the strongest 2nd tier 15 a side teams.

Now for Ireland.

Great sentiments and wise words from Rocky and Micky above.

Just wondering if you've any thoughts on scrummaging? Do you think the current laws/rules make the scrum any safer? What do you think about the amount of time wasted at today's scrums? How could it be improved? I've just watched a re-run of THAT game in 1973 when THAT try was scored by Gareth Edwards - the scrums took about 15 seconds!!