Referees in the Rugby Championship may now make their own try/no-try decisions by looking at the big screen.
Full article:
http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/RugbyChampionship/Big-screen-boost-Test-refs-20130907
I find this very strange...
Why?
It was already part of the protocol for foul play anyway,
3. Potential acts of foul play
3.1. The match officials may suggest that the referee refers the matter to the TMO for review if they observe an act of foul play where:
• They may have only partially observed an act or acts of foul play
• They are unsure of the exact circumstances
• The views of the match officials reporting the act(s) of foul play differ
• There is doubt as to the appropriate sanctions to be applied
3.2. If the referee agrees to refer the matter to the TMO he will indicate that he wishes the TMO to review the potential act(s) of foul play and to make a recommendation as to the appropriate sanction(s).
3.3. In reviewing the potential offence the TMO must use the criterion on each occasion that the infringement must be clear and obvious especially where sanctions may apply where a player is removed from the field of play either temporarily or permanently.
3.4. The other match officials may utilise the in stadium screens (where available) to form a judgement in this matter.
In accordance with Law 6.A.4, the referee will remain the sole judge of fact and law during a match.
The issue for me is that the Big Screen involves spectators & players in the review, and then a hooting & a hollering from the 90% home crowd.
How is this any different from the "hooting & hollering from the 90% home crowd" that he is subjected to for the whole 80 minutes?