In a minor revision to the current protocol surrounding the ongoing scrum engagement global trial, the International Rugby Board has confirmed that referees will use non-verbal communication to indicate to the scrum-half when the ball can be thrown into the scrum.

Up to now as part of the scrum trial, the referee has told the scrum-half that the scrum is ready for the put-in by the use of the phrase “yes nine”. But following an initial review, including consultation with national coaches and referee managers, it has been decided that referees will adopt a non-verbal communication to scrum-halves for the introduction of the ball. With the new procedure the verbal “Yes 9” has been dropped:

IRB Laws Directive

To support the new IRB Scrum Directive the following additional guidance is offered:

Ensure scrum half (and scrum half replacements) are briefed to the new protocol.

Ensure they are aware of how you will indicate that you are happy for them to put the ball in:

a) If on the far side of the scrum to the put-in the referee will raise his hand and nod his head in a yes motion when he is happy for the ball to be put-in.

b) If on the same side as the put-in the referee should tap the scrum half on the back when he is happy for the ball to be put-in.

Guidance for those refereeing children and or players of the opposite sex

Below should be included as a protocol to be adopted if refereeing under age games and women and girls.

To support the new IRB Scrum Directive the following additional guidance is offered:

Ensure scrum half (and scrum half replacements) are briefed to the new protocol.

With under age games suggest that when you brief the scrum half the coach is present so there can be no ambiguity regarding where and how you will touch the scrum half to indicate they can put the ball in.  Alternatively, if you are uncomfortable with this, manage the scrum from the far side to the put-in but please ensure the safety elements and need to move to put in side if the need arises.

With male referees refereeing women and girls matches please ensure a similar process is adopted to ensure there is no doubt about where the contact will be made.

If necessary, whilst the protocol indicates touching the scrum half on the back, at underage and women and girls games you may feel more comfortable touching the player on the shoulder but it is essential that the player is briefed accordingly.