MUNSTER’S CLASH WITH the Scarlets tomorrow in the Guinness Pro12 [KO 14.40, Sky Sports] will play host to the first trial of Hawk-Eye’s video review technology in the league.
World Rugby, formerly known as the IRB, is trialling the Hawk-Eye system to determine how effective it is at increasing the accuracy of the TMO [television match official] process, with a view to using it at this year’s Rugby World Cup.
Furthermore, the Pro12 says World Rugby is also interested in determining how the Hawk-Eye technology “can enhance player welfare.”
The new review system will not change how the referee interacts with his TMO, but the latter will now have “enhanced access to simultaneous multiple angle replays in real-time and slow motion” thanks to SMART Replay.
SMART Replay functions by “recording all broadcast angles in real time and making this content available immediately either on-site or remotely to help multiple stakeholders across sports officiating, player welfare, coaching and content management.”
TMO involvements often tend to be interminable in rugby, so the hope is that the Hawk-Eye technology – which is already being used in GAA, baseball, athletics and Australian Rules football – means swifter decisions.
Rugby supporters previously infuriated by inaccuracies in refereeing and TMO calls will watch on with interest.