Law Change Everyone Demanded After Rugby World Cup Final Has Been Implemented Worldwide

Following widespread discussion, World Rugby has now confirmed that the 20-minute red card rule, previously trialed in Super Rugby, will be adopted globally. The decision has been met with both anticipation and relief by fans, who hope it will bring a more balanced approach to in-game discipline.

The pivotal moment in the World Cup final came when Cane made contact with South Africa’s Jesse Kriel, with his shoulder hitting Kriel’s head. Initially, referee Wayne Barnes issued a yellow card, sending Cane to the sin-bin. However, after review by the bunker system, this was upgraded to a red card—prompting outrage among some fans.

The concept of the 20-minute red card was first trialed in Super Rugby, aimed at providing a compromise between upholding the game’s rules and avoiding the severe disadvantage of playing a man down for the remainder of the match. Under the rule, a red-carded player would be sidelined for 20 minutes, after which a substitute could replace him.

Cane’s sending off ignited a wave of fan responses, with many suggesting the 20-minute red card could have changed the game. One fan wrote, “Need to get some southern innovation and bring in the 20-minute red card – that way a decision like this won’t ruin the whole game.”

Another added, “Red card should be 20 minutes.”

“A different red card option is 20 minutes off, then a replacement player can come on. Better for the game & offender still suspended etc.,” a third fan commented.

With trials continuing across the globe, the World Rugby Executive Board unequivocally endorsed the programme, noting widespread approval from players, coaches, referees and fans alike, as well as statistics which strongly suggest a positive impact on the sport in line with the objective. Headline results include:

.

The Executive Board also endorsed updates to the Television Match Official (TMO) protocol, empowering officials to spot clear infringements in the final phases before scoring. A simplified red card process featuring standardised sanctions and the ability to replace a red-carded player after 20 minutes, was also supported after successful initial trials in World Rugby competitions.

The trials will go out to union and region consultation ahead of the World Rugby Council meeting on 14 November. Subject to approval by the Council, World Rugby will work closely with member unions, competition owners and key stakeholders to finalise the timeline and processes for global adoption.

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “This is another important step forward for the Shape of the Game programme. As a package, these trials demonstrate our commitment to making rugby as enjoyable as possible for audiences, while maintaining the integrity and competitive nature of the game. The positive outcomes from the trials reinforce our belief that these adjustments will bring lasting benefits to both players and fans.”

From high-profile marriages to lucrative endorsements and television appearances, these rugby stars have built financial empires.

Here’s a look at three couples who have combined their sporting legacies with fame and fortune, amassing millions along the way.

Mike Tindall is known not just for his rugby prowess but for his royal connections. As the husband of Zara Phillips, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth II, Tindall has become a prominent figure in British media.

Nicknamed “The Fridge” due to his imposing physique, Tindall was a stalwart on the rugby field, famously breaking his nose at least eight times over the course of his career. Since retiring from the sport, he’s made a name for himself in the entertainment world, appearing on popular reality shows such as I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, The Jump, Shark Cage, Celebrity Poker Club, and All-Star Poker Challenge

Despite his success in sports and entertainment, Tindall’s wealth has been largely bolstered by his royal ties, with his net worth estimated at £20 million, according to British media.

Jonny Wilkinson is a legendary figure in English rugby, with a career spanning 12 seasons at Newcastle Falcons before his move to French club Toulon in 2009. Wilkinson cemented his place in history by leading England to victory in the 2003 Rugby World Cup, becoming a national hero in the process.

In his personal life, Wilkinson has kept a lower profile. He married his long-time girlfriend, Shelley Jenkins, in a private ceremony on the French Riviera in October 2013. The couple now has a son, reportedly named James, and maintain a relatively private family life. Wilkinson's net worth stands at £22 million, making him one of rugby's wealthiest figures.

Sonny Bill Williams is a sporting icon from New Zealand, famed not only for his rugby achievements but also for his ventures into boxing. Known for his versatility, Williams has excelled in both rugby union and rugby league, playing as a centre and second-rower, respectively. Additionally, his brief yet successful stint in professional boxing saw him win nine out of 10 heavyweight bouts.

In 2013, Williams married Alana Raffie after a whirlwind four-week romance, following Islamic traditions despite admitting that they were not in love at the time. Their union has since become one of the most talked-about in sports. With a combination of earnings from rugby, boxing, and endorsements, the couple's net worth is reported to be around £20 million.