Statement: Six Nations confirms law changes for 2025 tournament

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Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

For the first time in Six Nations history, players who see red for technical offences can be replaced after 20 minutes, meaning teams won’t be left at a permanent disadvantage. However, for serious foul play, referees will still have the power to issue full, game-ending red cards.

England full-back Freddie Steward, who was controversially sent off in Dublin in 2023, is all for the change.

"It has such a significant impact on Test matches, as you saw in that game," he said. "You can lose games on a decision. It really kills you. I am glad they have taken strides to get it right."

Scrum-halves will now have extra protection at scrums, rucks, and mauls. Defenders must stay behind the centre of the scrum tunnel, and they can’t target the nine while the ball is near a ruck or maul.

Not everyone is thrilled. Ireland forward Tadhg Beirne didn’t hold back:

Referees will continue announcing big calls to the crowd via mic, following a successful trial in the Autumn Nations Series. Expect more clarity—and maybe a few more controversial reactions.

Two new rules will keep things moving:

Goodbye endless resets, hello faster-flowing rugby.

Officials will be backed by ‘Touchfinder’ technology, a new evolution of Smart Ball tracking. This system will pinpoint exactly where kicks cross the touchline, eliminating guesswork and improving lineout accuracy.

Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby’s wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin’s Saint Mary’s College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny’s rugby career.

With an empire worth an estimated £10 million, Siya and Rachel Kolisi were not just a power couple but partners in philanthropy.

Known for their foundation and work in communities, the couple planned to keep collaborating on their projects, even as they transition to a new chapter. Siya recently rejoined the Sharks in South Africa after a stint with French side Racing, but despite their split, Rachel remains the "rock" Siya has always called her.

Though the Kolisis’ marriage may be over, their legacy as one of South Africa’s most-loved couples will continue to inspire fans across the globe.

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.