With players’ welfare top of mind for World Rugby, the governing body has now amended its rules when it comes to compensating players hit with injuries while on international duty.
Effective July 01, the revised regulations will see the financial cap on a union’s liability for player release more than double to £500,000 up to a period of 12 months of temporary injury. Changes also include an enhanced check-in/check-out process for players when transitioning between their professional clubs and international teams.
Meanwhile World Rugby said it will continue to provide an insurance option for unions under its dedicated global policy.
“The welfare of players is our primary responsibility and we continually review the game’s regulations and laws to ensure that they are in step with a modern, evolving rugby environment and support the players, who are the beating heart of our sport,” stated chairman Sir Bill Beaumont when they announced the revisions.
The widened financial protection comes in time for Rugby World Cup 2019 preparation camps and matches – prompting Premiership Rugby, according to a report by The Guardian, to agree to the early release of their players.
Meanwhile Beaumont added: “This announcement is more than a regulatory change, it is a statement of commitment to players, unions, and clubs.
“Everyone now has certainty ahead of Rugby World Cup of an appropriate and proportional level of guaranteed cover should an injury occur while on international duty during the sport’s biggest event.”
