Super Rugby introduces shot clocks, reduces TMO intervention

In an attempt to speed up the game, Super Rugby Pacific organisers on Tuesday announced new law innovations.

The tournament will introduce shot clocks for conversions and penalties, while television match official (TMO) intervention will be limited.

Sanzaar said in a statement that referees will enforce a 90-second time limit on conversions, 60 seconds for penalty kicks, 30 second for scrums and lineouts, and five seconds for the ball to be used at rucks.

TMOs, meanwhile, will only interrupt play for serious, clear and obvious incidents of foul play.

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Tournament director Matt Barlow said the law innovations were designed to make the game more entertaining for fans and safer and more enjoyable for players.  

"We want Super Rugby Pacific to be the most entertaining, innovative and fastest professional rugby competition in the world. We've listened to our fans and taken steps to reduce stoppages and video replays, increase flow and maintain the integrity of the competition and the safety of players in regard to yellow and red cards.  

"Players, coaches and referees are excited about these innovations, and we believe they will create a better fan experience both at the game and for those watching on television."

Barlow stressed player welfare would not be jeopardised by the law innovations, which would focus the spotlight more on dangerous and foul play but do it in a way that did not have such a big impact on the viewing experience for spectators.  

"The review process for dangerous play will be as vigorous as ever and we believe TMOs will be able to make better judgements about the seriousness of foul play offences without the pressure of