IRB head of referees Paddy O’Brien is reported to be saying he believes there should be a greater use of technology in rugby.

This call comes after O’Brien cited a forward pass during the build-up of Richie McCaw’s crucial try in the All Blacks’ victory over the Springboks last Saturday.

The assistant referee in charge for this game received nothing more than a slap on the wrist, even though the incident occurred right in front of him. One would think that having eyes is technology enough in a case like that.

This is an interesting turn of events considering barely three weeks ago, South African Assistant Referee Cobus Wessels was stood down for his calling of what could have passed for a penalisable offence by Wallaby winger Drew Mitchell on richie McCaw. This from some distance away.

O’Brien said referees are at a disadvantage because of the lack of technology to help them make key decisions. However, after approaching the IRB council with the issue, he was turned down.

In my view, they don’t need extra technology, they simply need to be consistent in their rulings. It seems however you need to be South African to be dealt with officially. This is remarkable considering that South African Officials are widely considered to be the best in the game.

Tags: assistant referees, cobus wessles, drew mitchell, IRB, paddy o brien, richie mccaw, rugby officials, technology in rugby

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