Law changes have increased kicking and scrums – Patchell

WALES kicking coach Rhys Patchell believes World Rugby’s law change has resulted in the unintended consequence of more kicking and more scrums, writes Steffan Thomas.

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The decision to ban “escort runners” getting in the way of attacking teams chasing kicks has seen teams take to the sky far more often this autumn, with Wales fullback Blair Murray clearly targeted and exposed on numerous occasions against Argentina and Japan.

With no protective pocket around the catcher, back three players face a difficult task defending high balls from a standing position as their opponents run on to the ball.

It has led to fears from some pundits aerial ability is becoming more important than attacking ability for some of the most talented players in the game.

Such a development would be “a travesty”, according to S4C commentator and WalesOnline columnist Gwyn Jones.