Up to a point, Sir Ian ...

[chbg]

In today's Times' Guide to the RWC, Sir Ian McGeechan discusses 5 tactical plays. When discussing the 'Leg Tackle' the text states: "The laws at the breakdown were recently changed so that a defender who has tackled the ball-carrier can keep his hands on the ball even when the ruck has formed rather than having to release the ball and attack from his own side of the ruck. He still has to to get on his feet, but by staying low and holding on to the ball, he can gain possession"

Prepare for different interpretations of what this means ... :shrug:

 

[damo]

In today's Times' Guide to the RWC, Sir Ian McGeechan discusses 5 tactical plays. When discussing the 'Leg Tackle' the text states: "The laws at the breakdown were recently changed so that a defender who has tackled the ball-carrier can keep his hands on the ball even when the ruck has formed rather than having to release the ball and attack from his own side of the ruck. He still has to to get on his feet, but by staying low and holding on to the ball, he can gain possession"

Prepare for different interpretations of what this means ... :shrug:

The rule has been around for a while that a player on his feet who grabs the ball before a ruck forms does not have to let it go if a ruck forms around him. Your quote is a little misleading as it seems to imply that a tackler does not have to let go of the ball/player before grabbing the ball. He needs to give separation between himself and the tackled player before he can go back for the ball.

It is a little crude to say the oft quoted "he has to let the tackled player play the ball first" but its not so far from the reality.

 

[Rit Hinners]

It is a little crude to say the oft quoted "he has to let the tackled player play the ball first" but its not so far from the reality.

It would be more correct to say "He has to give the tackled player a chance to play the ball first." If the tackled player fails to play immediately once that chance is given it's free for all. The definition of "immediately" may vary from ref to ref.

 

[OB..]

It would be more correct to say "He has to give the tackled player a chance to play the ball first." If the tackled player fails to play immediately once that chance is given it's free for all. The definition of "immediately" may vary from ref to ref.

He has to release and get to his feet. That is sufficient time for the tackled player to play immediately. He does not have to wait any longer than that. In practice, as long as the referee can see he clearly released, he can go for he ball.

 

[chbg]

Not my quote, damo; attributed by The Times to Sir Ian ("regarded as one of the greatest coaches in the history of rugby")! My point entirely - if he believes that this is the whole Law, then who will help us?