New rule change aimed at stamping out sin bin time-wasting

[Nergal]

 

The NRL is attempting to stamp out time wasting from players sent to the sin bin.

In the new rule change approved by the ARL commission on Tuesday, players in 2019 must run from the field taking the most direct route to the dressing room.

“Failure to do so may lead to clubs being breached and fined under NRL rules and/or offending players may be charged with contrary conduct under the NRL Judiciary Code,” a NRL statement said.

There are glaring issues with this rule. For instance, what constitutes a run?

Players dawdling from the field after being sent for 10 was the cause of growing frustration for fans in 2018.

There was talk of a 20-second shot clock that starts when the referee makes the sin bin gesture. And for every second the player remains on the field of play after that period they get added on to his 10 minute punishment.

Still, any measure introduced by the governing body to address what were at times farcical scenes will be applauded.

It is one of five main changes aimed at keeping the ball in play longer and improving safety.

The alternative “dangerous contact” charge is one such safety measure.