For all our readers, here are the experimental law variations to be used in the Rebel Sport Super 14 for this season.

A brief breakdown is :

Posts and Flags

If a player with the ball touches a corner post he will not be in touch, unless he touches the touchline or the ground beyond the touchline. If the ball is not being carried by a player and it touches the corner post it will not be in touch in goal.

In the 22

If a team moves the ball back into their 22m area, then kicks it out on the full, the lineout is in line with where the ball was kicked, unless a tackle has been made or a ruck or maul has formed.

Lineout and Throw

A quick throw-in can be backwards in the direction of the player’s own goal line.

Lifting and using another teammate to lever is allowed.

Tackle and Ruck

Players must enter through the gate.

There are now offside lines at the tackle (extending the full width of the field).

The halfback may not be touched, unless he has his hands on the ball.

If the ball is unplayable at a tackle or ruck, the side that did not take the ball into contact will receive a free kick.

Maul

If a maul becomes unplayable, the team not in possession at the start of the maul receives a free kick.

Scrum

Offside line for backs (except the halfback) is five metres behind the hindmost foot.

Sanctions

For all offences other than offside, not entering through the gate, and foul play, the sanction is a free kick (or the option of a scrum instead).

Assistant Referees

Assistant referees can help referees in any manner required when appointed by a match organiser.