Update: 1:42PM WORLD Rugby’s simplified law book launches today with the aim of enhancing accessibility and understanding without altering the laws themselves.
The law book, which can presently be accessed in three languages at http://worldrugby.org/laws and downloaded via the iTunes App store, is the product of almost two years’ work by a specialist group.
The result is a law book that is, according to World Rugby, more logically laid out, clearer in its explanations and, with various repetitions and contradictions removed, 42 per cent shorter than the current version.
In a statement issued today, World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: “As our game continues to grow around the world, we continue to strive to make the sport as accessible to all.”
He said the laws could be difficult to understand for new participants and fans.
“The new law book goes a long way towards simplifying it and making it easier to understand for players, coaches, referees and the viewing public,” Beaumont said.
“This project has been a truly collaborative effort with every union given the opportunity to contribute.
“I’d like to thank them and the working group for their full commitment to an extensive and important process. I believe what they have produced will make a big difference to the game as we seek to make rugby even more accessible to all.”
World Rugby head of communications Dominic Rumbles said the new law book would shortly be printed and distributed in the usual way in multiple languages, while the laws exam could be undertaken.
The law simplification group comprised World Rugby head of Technical Services and club head coach Mark Harrington, Scottish Rugby Union Referee Manager and former international referee Tappe Henning , sports scientist Dr Ross Tucker, former New Zealand Rugby Referee Manager Rod Hill, RFU Laws Committee chairman Chris Cuthbertson, former World Rugby Media Manager and former international referee James Fitzgerald, and web designer and illustrator Adam Pearson.
