Super Rugby Pacific adds golden point rule

Golden try will become golden point for the inaugural Super Rugby Pacific season, and a simple coin toss could play a key role in a team's chances of success.

The law variations for the 2022 campaign were officially released on Wednesday, with the biggest talking point being golden point to decide any drawn matches.

Teams will have up to two periods of five minutes each to score the winning point, meaning a drop goal, penalty, or try can secure the spoils.

If no points are scored during extra time, the match will be declared a draw.

Last year's Super Rugby AU competition featured only a golden try scenario, but the NZRU convinced Rugby Australia to switch to golden point.

A coin toss will decide which team kicks off and which team receives in a move supported by Western Force coach Tim Sampson.

"In the past, the restart was how the game started in the first instance. So I think that's a good change to go to a coin toss," Sampson said.

"When you get to a golden point situation, tactically you've got to be smart depending on what the conditions are like.

"Possession and field position are key."

Most of the other variations that were trialled in Super Rugby AU have been carried across.

Teams who receive a red card can replace that player after 20 minutes, restoring a 15 versus 15 match-up.

The 50:22 law, first trialled in Australian Rugby and since adopted as World Rugby Global Law Trials, will be carried through into the 2022 competition

It means if a player kicks the ball from his own half and it bounces before going out of play in the opposition 22, his team will be given the throw at the ensuing line-out.

The goal line drop-out will also be included.

"The red card and golden point law variations ensure the fans are