World Rugby’s plan to overhaul the TMO system would eliminate host broadcaster influence over key decisions.
The Telegraph reports that the global governing body is trialling a centralised TMO hub that could be rolled out at next year’s World Cup.
The trial began during the Nations Cup (the tournament below the Nations Championship) and Junior World Championship, with all TMOs working remotely from Hawk-Eye’s headquarters in Basingstoke, England, rather than at the match venues.
The new system gives TMOs direct control of every available broadcast angle, assisted by a Hawk-Eye operator, instead of relying on TV directors to provide footage.
One of the key aims is to remove the possibility of broadcaster manipulation – accidental or otherwise – while also ensuring every TMO works with the same technology and experienced operators.
World Rugby also believes the centralised model will improve consistency between matches while reducing officiating costs, as fewer TMOs would be required and officials would no longer need to travel to every venue.
ALSO: URC hails Hawk-Eye success in TMO decisions
World Rugby has already introduced minimum standards for TMO operations at international level, with all unions required to adopt them before next year’s World Cup.
Under the new requirements, every available camera angle must be accessible to the TMO and foul play review officer, while the referee must receive footage directly from the TMO rather than via the host broadcaster.
Responsibility for selecting the replay angles will also rest with the TMO instead of the TV director.
The post World Rugby trials TMO hub appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
World Rugby’s plan to overhaul the TMO system would eliminate host broadcaster influence over key decisions.
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