A heated debate has erupted in the rugby world following the lenient ban handed to Ireland's James Ryan for a dangerous tackle. Former referee boss Owen Doyle has strongly criticized the decision, sparking a discussion about player safety, disciplinary measures, and the effectiveness of World Rugby's interventions.
Ryan received a three-week suspension for a head-high clearout on South African hooker Malcolm Marx during the match on November 22nd. However, this ban could be reduced to just two weeks if Ryan completes World Rugby's Coaching Intervention Programme. This means he might be back on the field sooner than expected, potentially playing in Leinster's upcoming Champions Cup games against Saracens.
Doyle didn't mince words, calling the punishment 'frankly nonsense.' He believes the suspension was too light, given the severity of the incident. He also expressed his skepticism about the 'tackling school' concept, questioning its effectiveness. But here's where it gets controversial... Doyle argues that if elite professional players don't know how to tackle properly, the game has a much bigger problem. He sees the tackling school as a way to get players back on the pitch quickly.
He points out that while some believe the program is effective in preventing repeat offenses, others see it as a mere formality. Doyle suggests that all professional teams should implement a tackling school before each season, ensuring every player passes an exam.
It's worth noting that unlike some other players who received permanent red cards in November, Ryan only received a 20-minute red card. This type of card is designed to penalize the player rather than the team for technique errors, rather than malicious or reckless actions.
Doyle also revealed that World Rugby considered another rule alongside the 20-minute red card: automatic suspensions. This would have resulted in a four-week ban for Ryan, a much stricter penalty. However, this proposal was ultimately rejected.
What do you think? Do you agree with Doyle's assessment of the ban? Is the 'tackling school' an effective solution, or is it a way to let players off the hook? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
