DOMESTIC LAW VARIATIONS
 
DOMESTIC LAW VARIATION: U18

The IRB have advised that a Domestic Law Variation for all age groups under 18 should be implemented as detailed below:
Law 15.8 Tackle: Forbidden Practices
(i) The action known as "Squeeze Ball" is illegal for all age groups from under 18 downwards.
Penalty: Penalty Kick
"Squeeze Ball" is interpreted as the action of a player who goes to ground, on his knees, facing the opposition and who then slowly presents the ball back towards his own team through his legs.

 
LAW 3 - NUMBER OF PLAYERS - THE TEAM
 
4. Players Nominated As Substitutes & Team Lists
(a)

Teams may nominate up to 7 replacements/substitutes.
(b) All teams must complete a team list.
(c) Shirts shall be numbered such that every player can be identified.
(d)

The team list shall clearly indicate those players nominated and trained to play in the front row.
(e) Teams are responsible for returning their Team Sheet to the Union Before 3pm on the Monday following a Saturday fixture or by 3pm the day following a mid week game. Failure to meet these deadlines will result in any tries scored not being counted in the Top Try Scorer Competition. All teams are still required to submit a team sheet even if they have missed the Top Try Scorer deadline.
 
5. Suitably Trained And Experienced Players In The Front Row
(a)

All teams must be able to start a match and contest the first scrum using players who are suitably trained and experienced in the front row.
(b) First Division teams (and similar standard in non-league competition) must have at least 4 players who can play in the front row.
(c) Teams that cannot fulfill this requirement will forfeit the points (game). Play may continue but with uncontested scrums (see Law 3. 14(c)).
 
12. Number Of Substitutions
(a)

A team may substitute up to 7 players at any time during the match.
(b) For games below Division 1 (and its equivalent in other competitions) this figure may be altered subject to the agreement of both captains.
 
Reason: Insufficient trained and experienced front row players in Hong Kong
 
Last Updated on 29 October 2003