‘The dark arts are slowly going out of the game’: Tadhg Beirne adapting to law tweaks
Munster rugby captain Tadhg Beirne discusses how recent law changes in rugby are altering the game's defensive tactics. He notes that the reduction of 'dark arts' in the maul makes the game cleaner but more challenging for defenders.
Why it matters
Changes to sports regulations often impact player strategy and the overall entertainment value of professional leagues.
Several aspects of his game have helped to make Tadhg Beirne a truly world-class player over the last decade, including his renowned ability to win turnovers in defensive mauls and over the ball. But two factors have combined to potentially reduce his impact in those categories this season.
Ahead of Munster’s opening Champions Cup game against Racing 92 at Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Saturday (kick-off 8pm), it will be close to one of the wonders of the world if the game does not feature tries off penalties to the corner and resultant catch-and-drives.
Law tweaks have made this the game’s staple diet and for players like Beirne they have become harder to defend than ever this season.
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