Rugby World Cup 2023 – What is Orange Card? Know Fully

World Rugby is considering introducing an orange card to the sport, and rugby fans are buzzing with anticipation. It is hoped that this potential addition will streamline decision-making processes and reduce delays on the field, particularly when the severity of an offense is uncertain. We will explore the orange card concept, its functionality, and its potential impact on the game in this article. This is one of the five laws which to be comes in the RWC 2023.

Rugby’s Current Review System

First, it is necessary to examine rugby’s existing review system in order to understand the significance of the orange card. Upon review by the Television Match Official (TMO), referees can issue yellow cards for foul play incidents, which can be upgraded to red cards. However, this process often results in lengthy on-field replays, disrupting the flow of the game.

An Orange Card is Needed

England’s controversial dismissal of full-back Freddie Steward during a Six Nations match highlighted the need for an efficient system. Steward’s high-speed challenge on Hugo Keenan raised questions about the appropriateness of a red card in such instances. By introducing an orange card, these contentious decisions could be addressed effectively and decision-making could be expedited.

How does the Orange Card work in rugby?

If a referee is uncertain about the severity of an offense, they can show an orange card instead of waiting for a TMO review. The orange card would serve as an intermediary between the yellow and red cards. In this way, play will continue as the incident is assessed, reducing interruptions and allowing the game to run smoothly.

Process of obtaining an Orange Card

The player in question would be temporarily sent to the sin bin for 10 minutes upon receiving an orange card. The TMO would then review the incident within this timeframe to determine whether it warrants a red card or if it is sufficient to receive a yellow card. In this way, a decision can be reached during the match, minimizing disruptions.

Possibilities for Orange Card outcomes

If the TMO determines that the offense actually warrants a red card, the orange card will be upgraded to a red card, resulting in the player’s permanent expulsion from the game if the TMO determines the offense warrants a red card. After serving the 10-minute sin bin period, a player may return to the game if the TMO deems a yellow card sufficient.

The Orange Card System: Benefits and Drawbacks

In addition to speeding up decision-making, the orange card system ensures that contentious incidents are addressed as soon as possible. Additionally, it reduces the reliance on on-field replays, thereby maintaining match rhythm. There are, however, drawbacks to the system, including an increased reliance on TMO decisions and a subjective interpretation of offenses.

Comparative Analysis of Other Sports’ Cards

To gain a broader perspective, it is worthwhile to compare rugby’s yellow, orange, and red cards with similar card systems in other sports. Understanding the orange card’s unique features in rugby will allow us to gain a better understanding of its potential benefits and how it may contribute to the game’s integrity and fairness.

Trials for the Orange Card in Super Rugby Pacific

A trial of the orange card system has been conducted in Super RugbyPacific to gauge its viability and effectiveness. Through these trials, we have gained valuable insight into the new system’s implementation and reception, which has allowed us to refine its functionality and address any concerns.

From the perspective of World Rugby

In a recent interview with World Rugby’s head of match officials, Joel Jutge expressed support for the adoption of orange cards at the Rugby World Cup. Jutge believes that the introduction of orange cards would streamline the decision-making process, allowing referees to make swift judgments in 50-50 situations while still providing the opportunity for review.