It is
clear from a number of queries this past week that there is some confusion
amongst us. It would seem sensible to give this advisory note, having sought
clarification from the RFU
RFU Law 4 states that studs or cleats must conform with IRB Regulation 12, and we are given a guidance note from RFU as follows:
Guidance note - It is not now the responsibility of the referee to say whether a particular make of stud/boot conforms to the regulation. All the referee has to do is to check studs for sharp edges or burring.
It is therefore clear that referees need no longer concern themselves about whether one make of boot is legal or otherwise. Referees have a duty in Law to inspect studs/boots on match days, only to confirm that in their view there is no risk of injury by them. This means that studs, cleats or blades must be seen to be smooth and rounded.
Remember also that single studs at the toe of boots remain prohibited. And that the maximum sud dimensions are shown in Law book page 162. But to be clear, boots with blades (including metal or metal tipped) are legal now as long as the referee inspects them and finds all edges smooth, rounded and free of any burring.
It thus remains entirely possible that a referee one week approves a set of boots, while the next week another referee refuses them. They may have deteriorated in the interim through playing or training. The referee’s decision on the day is final.
IRB Regulation 12 (players clothing) can be viewed and downloaded from www.irb.com although it is a 29 page document. It is the responsibility of clubs and players to be familiar with the Regulation (indeed all IRB Regulations). It is the referee’s responsibility simply to assess and decide upon the safety risk on match day.
I hope this has cleared up any confusion. Those who attended the Yorkshire Training Day heard the message clearly then.
Allan MacGregor
