**Will Rugby's Modernisation Plans Succeed or Face Rejection? | Andy Bull** New Zealand Rugby's chief executive, Mark Robinson, is advocating for a reinvention of rugby union as the sport navigates a pivotal moment in its history. Last month marked the 30th anniversary of modern rugby union, a milestone that traces back to the autumn of 1994 when Louis Luyt, then president of the South African Rugby Union, declared the game would transition to professionalism following the World Cup hosted in South Africa the next year. Luyt was the first prominent figure to publicly acknowledge what many had only whispered about, and his declaration set in motion a transformation that could not be reversed. While 30 years may seem brief in the grand timeline of sports, rugby is at a unique crossroads. It is both ancient—its origins are somewhat murky—and relatively young, still exploring its identity in the professional sports landscape. "We’re still very new compared to many other professional sports," Robinson noted. Having played nine Tests for the All Blacks in the early 2000s, Robinson has served as CEO since 2020 and is now actively engaging in discussions leading up to the World Rugby Council meeting in Dublin on November 14. During this meeting, he and other key stakeholders will deliberate on the future direction of the game. As rugby looks ahead, the decisions made in Dublin could significantly shape its evolution.

The 20-minute red card will be introduced as a trial during the upcoming Autumn Nations Series, marking its debut in the northern hemisphere. This decision comes despite opposition from Ireland and France regarding the permanent implementation of the rule, which is aimed at enhancing player safety. Six Nations Rugby, the governing body for the 21 matches scheduled in the Autumn Nations Series, has confirmed that the new law will be tested throughout November. This includes England's four matches against New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and Japan. While some Premiership coaches advocate for the change to keep players on the field, the debate continues over the potential impact on player welfare and the game itself.