'The protocols are clearly not working' - SANZAR request TMO overhaul after spate of howlers

SANZAAR Chief Executive Officer Andy Marinos admits that current Television Match Official system is not working – report Rugby 365.

There have been many controversial refereeing incidents and inconsistencies in Super Rugby this year.

The involvement of TMO’s in decisions during games has also been a major talking point throughout the season.

“At the conclusion of each season SANZAAR conducts a thorough review of its competitions and looks to continually enhance and improve the product for its stakeholders,” said a statement from SANZAAR.

“The past four weeks of international and domestic rugby have highlighted some challenges within the match officiating processes in the game of rugby, in particular, the events over the past two weeks of Super Rugby.”

In the statement, Marinos said the TMO’s involvement in matches needs to be on the periphery.

“Match officiating is a very important component of our game that undergoes continuous review to keep abreast of law changes and specific directives passed down from World Rugby. The performances of the guys in the middle and those on the sidelines, and behind the TV monitor, are regularly reviewed and appraised to ensure the best referees and officials are officiating in Super Rugby matches.”

“Like a player, match officials who consistently do not perform to the level required are stood down from time to time, with specific game related work then done to get them back to performing consistently.

“A major concern for us at present is the practical implementation of the Television Match Official (TMO) protocols. The protocols are clearly not working and a specific review is required in this area.

“SANZAAR believes the appointed referee needs to remain the key decision maker on the field and that TMO interventions only provide context to the match officials’ decision making. We need better consistency in the application of the protocols and most would agree that perhaps this is not the case. The aim of the review will be to drive some operational changes to the protocols to ensure this consistency so that better outcomes are delivered.

“SANZAAR is not empowered to adjust any protocols that have a direct affect on the Laws of the Game. However, we are keen to lead the discussion in this important area and following our review we will take our recommendations to World Rugby, the guardians of the Laws of Rugby, to ensure beneficial outcomes are achieved for the game.

“In terms of the Super Rugby finals SANZAAR will shortly appoint the four referees for the Super Rugby quarter-finals. These will be merit-based appointments and their selection has included direct input from the Super Rugby head coaches.”

Source: @rugby365com