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Is it time to let the TMO have the final decision?

Since the advent of professionalism, rugby has taken some pretty big strides forward in both an e...



Is it time to let the TMO have...
Videos

Is it time to let the TMO have the final decision?

Since the advent of professionalism, rugby has taken some pretty big strides forward in both an effort to speed up the game and to eradicate mistakes. 

The TV Match Official has been generally seen as a positive in the game - bringing a sense of definitiveness to close calls over the years.

However, the complex nature of the questions along with the language barrier between officials can, at times, lead to misinterpretation and delays in the game - all of which the TMO was supposed to eradicate. 

In Australia's NRL, once a decision is referred 'upstairs', the TMO reviews the footage, makes a decision and the game continues.

Is it time for rugby union to follow their lead? 

Former Ireland international Donncha O'Callaghan joined Off the Ball for Monday Night Rugby and speaking to Joe Molloy, he said: "It goes up on the screen, the ref on the pitch has a look at it and has his own view on it. I think as soon as they kick it on upstairs - the power should be taken out of their hands. They should just be given the decision.

"Another thing is - it needs to speed up. TMOs, what are they at like? Are they making a cup of tea in between every decision? When you compare it to State of Origin, you nearly have an answer within 30 seconds. I think it's just an area of rugby - everyone complains about the scrummaging - but the length of time TMO decisions are taking and the interference when the ref comes back, I think it's a bit all over the place and needs tidying up within the game," he added. 

The full discussion can be heard here:

Is it time to let the TMO have the final decision?

00:00:00 / 00:00:00

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