EP Kings<\/a> playing the first match against Boland in the new, eight-team Absa First Division.<\/p>\nThe trials will, amongst other things, allow referees to consult TMOs about incidents of foul play or infringements such as knock-ons and forward passes that might have occurred anywhere on the field in the build-up to a try being scored.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe International Rugby Board (IRB) recently gave SARU dispensation to trial the extension of the TMO Protocol and we are very excited to try them out,\u201d said the SARU GM: Referees, Andr\u00e9 Watson. \u201cReferrals can now go back to the previous restart, i.e. penalty kick, free kick, lineout, scrum, kick-off, but not further back than two rucks or mauls. That means numerous tackles may occur.\u201d<\/p>\n
Watson said the trials would also allow on-field match officials to use stadium screens to decide on matters, while TMOs would have the power to inform referees of \u201cincidents and issues\u201d over and above those usually requested when trying to determine whether or not a try had been scored.<\/p>\n
The full TMO trials are as follows:<\/strong><\/p>\nTMO may be referred to as per the current application as well as:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- When match officials are unsure whether foul play has occurred anywhere on the field or in-goal.<\/li>\n
- When match officials believe there may have been an infringement by the team that scored a try or touched down.<\/li>\n
- When match officials believe a try or touch-down was prevented by an infringement.<\/li>\n
- To confirm the success or otherwise of kicks at goal.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
Infringements listed by the IRB include:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n- Knock-on<\/li>\n
- Forward pass<\/li>\n
- Player in touch<\/li>\n
- Off-side<\/li>\n
- Obstruction<\/li>\n
- Tackling a player without the ball<\/li>\n
- Foul play<\/li>\n
- Double movement in act of scoring<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
How will the TMO adjudicate?<\/strong><\/p>\n