Why was Fiji's Semi Radradra given 20-minute red card against Wales in Autumn Nations Series? New system explained
Published 10/11/2024 at 16:27 GMT
Fiji were given the first 20-minute red card of the Autumn Nations Series, live on TNT Sports and discovery+, as Semi Radradra saw his yellow card upgraded to a red in their 24-19 win over Wales. The new system is being trialled in the autumn fixtures after having been used in The Rugby Championship over the summer. TNT's Craig Doyle and Dan Biggar explained the new rule.
Semi Radradra's 20-minute red card explained as Fiji star sent marching against Wales
Video credit: TNT Sports
The Autumn Nations Series witnessed its first 20-minute red card as Fiji star Semi Radradra saw his yellow card upgraded to a red in the match against Wales, which they won 24-19.
Radradra was given a yellow card by referee Luc Ramos for his challenge on Wales fullback Cameron Winnett, only for the Foul Play Review process to deem it worthy of a red.
However, instead of a straight red ridding a team of a player for the remainder of the game, they now only lose the individual for 20 minutes. The player does not return to the field and is instead replaced by a substitute once 20 minutes have elapsed.
TNT Sports presenter Craig Doyle and former Wales fly-half Dan Biggar explained the new system after Fiji became the first side to be affected by the rule this autumn.
The rule is intended to be used at the referee's discretion for technical offences, such as accidental head contact.
Radradra’s shoulder made contact with Winnett's head as he attempted a tackle while chasing a kick.
Ramos showed a yellow card after deciding the challenge met the threshold required for a sin-bin. The Foul Play Review Officer then determined that it needed to be upgraded to a red.
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Semi Radradra's 20-minute red card explained as Fiji star sent marching against Wales
Video credit: TNT Sports
“There was a high degree of danger and no mitigation,” Ramos was told, leading to him pulling out a red card and ending Radradra’s game.
The new rules allowed Fiji to replace the wing after 20 minutes, with Sireli Maqala coming on in his place.
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WHAT IS THE FOUL PLAY REVIEW PROCESS?
The Bunker review system or Foul Play Review means that a referee can give a yellow card to a player before a Foul Play Review Official (FPRO) then decides if the decision should be upgraded to a red.
The process allows games to instantly continue instead of a long stoppage debating the severity of the offence.
The referee signals the process by crossing their arms to indicate a Bunker review will take place. Once the 10-minute sin-bin begins, the FPRO has eight minutes to review the decision. If no red is needed, the player will return to the field after 10 minutes as normal.
Stream the Gallagher Premiership, 2024 Autumn Nations Series and Premiership Women's Rugby on TNT Sports and discovery+
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