The tweaks, which will be implemented across both the domestic and professional games in Ireland and beyond, have been designed to make the sport safer, whilst improving it as a spectacle.

The first change sees the 'croc roll' outlawed. A croc roll is defined as follows: A prohibited action where a player laterally rolls/twists or pulls a player, who is on their feet in the tackle area, to ground. The action often lands on the player’s lower limbs.

By banning the dangerous clear-out action, it is hoped that there will be a reduction on lower limb injuries, many of which have occurred on the back of croc rolls.

The second law change has removed the option to call for a scrum from a free kick, with the aim being that there will be less time spent on scrums and reset scrums.

The third and final tweak will deem players offside if they are in front of the kicker. The loophole, which had become known as the ‘Dupont Law’, has been closed to allow more space that will encourage more counter-attacking rugby.

Players must now actively retreat away from the receiver after their team kicks possession to the opposition.

The IRFU has also reminded its stakeholders that year two of the tackle height adaptation trial where the legal tackle height is below the baseline of the sternum has now begun.

In mid-September, the union will host a webinar to deliver some of the early insights from Year 1 of the tackle law amendment trial. As part of this webinar, there will be the ability to ask questions regarding all current laws in the domestic game, including these three new law changes. The time and date of this webinar will be circulated to all clubs and schools in the coming weeks.