No one punch rule for World Cup

[DIEHARD]

No one punch rule for World Cup

The Rugby League World Cup won't be officiated under the same ''one punch and you're off'' edict introduced in the NRL mid-season.

Punching an opponent remains illegal but the ramifications aren't as clear-cut as in the NRL, which have taken a zero tolerance to on-field violence, with players automatically sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes no matter the circumstances.
Instead, it will be left to the on-field referee to make a decision on the punishment - with the NRL adjusting an interpretation to an international foul play rule rather than amending the present rule book.

The move comes after the NRL took a tough stance after Paul Gallen and Nate Myles exchanged punches in the opening State of Origin game - where officials were heavily criticised after Gallen conceded just a penalty. Four players - Greg Bird, Trent Merrin, Brent Tate and Justin Hodges - were sin binned in Origin II after the interpretation was introduced.

The shoulder charge remains banned after the Rugby League International Federation followed the NRL's lead in outlawing the tackling technique this year.
Federation secretary Andrew Hill said the on-field officials will make a decision about foul play.

''There is nothing specific on the 'punch and you're off' [policy],'' Hill said. ''It will be interpreted by the on-field referee. The game will be refereed according to the international laws. The panel have worked through the different interpretations and have agreed on the way the World Cup will be refereed and interrupted.''

The rules and officiating panel is made up of the NRL's Daniel Anderson, Englishman Stuart Cummings and former NRL coach David Waite, who is acting as an independent official. They have met to find resolutions between the different interpretations of the northern and southern hemispheres.
Matches will be officiated by one referee with the controlling referee
not to make a decision before sending a possible try to be reviewed by the video referee, as introduced in the NRL this year. The corner post won't be part of the touchline while the Super League's ''free'' play advantage rule won't be in use, with the NRL's interpretation of advantage to feature.
NRL referees Ben Cummins, Shayne Hayne, Ashley Klein and Grant Atkins will feature in the World Cup, while Henry Perenara will be the New Zealand representative at the tournament.

Source: http://www.smh.com.au

[C-Whiz]

Thank goodness we might get to see some old fashioned fisticuffs.

England should be able to throw a few too. Might be fun to see a bit of all-in action between them and the Kiwis.

Burgess vs SBW?

[DIEHARD]

Biff! Be great to have a bit of buff against the Old Enemy.

I thought a few of you would be happy about this.

[TITAN PETE]

Hope it happens after the 1st tackle

[DIEHARD]

Where is Mark OMeley when ya need him?