World Rugby has introduced a phased plan to improve rugby's global appeal. The plan includes law trials and changes, like the 20-minute red card global trial. This follows the recent 'Shape of the Game forum' and one of the trials will be voted on at World Rugby's Council meeting in May. The controversial red card law is currently being tested in Super Rugby Pacific and may be implemented worldwide based on the vote's outcome. The SANZAAR nations have supported changing the red card punishment to a 20-minute removal from the field, allowing the player to be replaced.

This change is part of World Rugby's phase to enhance rugby's appeal, which also includes reviewing on and off-field sanctions. Specialized working groups will explore recommendations from the Shape of the Game forum, focusing on improving discipline and sanctioning processes for fan understanding. The plan suggests devaluing red cards while increasing off-field suspensions for players. The working groups will also address safety and spectacle concerns, like tackling, rucking, TMO protocols, and fan experience.