so is this the confirmation we're waiting for? taken from ........
Introduction:
Welcome to the 7th Match Official Update for the 2014-15 season.
Players Clothing – studs of players’ boots
Following recent questions from different parts of the country, it is timely to re-iterate,
Law 4 – Players Clothing, particularly as this relates to studs of players’ boots.
The World Rugby Rugby Committee has stated that Studs of players’ boots must conform with World Rugby Specifications (Regulation 12) and Law 4.3.
Law 4.3 – Studs states that:
a) Studs of players’ boots must conform with the World Rugby Specifications (Regulation 12).
b) Moulded rubber multi-studded soles are acceptable provided they have no sharp edges or ridges.
Unions are requested to remind Referees in their jurisdiction that they are obliged in accordance with World Rugby Law 4.5 to inspect player’s clothing and studs for conformity to the Laws and Regulations of the Game.
If the referee decides that the clothing does not conform with Law or Regulation and in the case of studs specifically, the studs are burring, sharp or abrasive or liable to cause injury to a player then the referee must order the player to remove it or them (or, as appropriate change boots).
The player must not take part in the match until the offending items of clothing are removed.
In summary;
1. There are no longer any restrictions on the configuration of studs or use of blades;
2. Studs, when present, must comply with World Rugby Regulation 12;
3. Referees must be vigilant to ensure that studs with sharp or abrasive edges are not worn.