World Rugby finds no medical need to outlaw 7-1 bench splits

World Rugby insists there is no medical evidence that 7-1 bench splits will lead to more injuries and the governing body has no plans to outlaw the tactic as a result.

- Gerard Meagher

France deployed a bench of seven forwards and one back to devastating effect in three matches during the Six Nations, particularly during the 42-27 victory against Ireland in Dublin. The strategy was introduced by South Africa in a warmup match against New Zealand before the 2023 World Cup, and they have used it on a number of occasions since.

The Scotland head coach, Gregor Townsend, expressed concerns at a World Rugby "Shape of the Game" conference during the Six Nations and also stated his views after his side's win against Wales. "I don't think the bench was set up to suddenly have a new forward pack coming on," he said. "But that's for World Rugby to decide what you do with the bench, and to make any changes. But just now you can put eight forwards on the bench if you want.