All Blacks legend raises concerns over TMO path as officials’ performance questioned
Concerns over TMO interference
Former All Blacks star Jeff Wilson has voiced his frustration regarding the current Television Match Official (TMO) protocols, suggesting that World Rugby may have an issue if the current approach continues. His comments follow a series of interruptions during recent Nations Championship matches, including games involving New Zealand and Australia.
Wilson noted that TMOs appear to be actively seeking reasons to disallow tries, focusing on minor infractions. He observed that this approach not only frustrates players and coaches but also alienates fans, who struggle to understand the decisions being made within the stadium. He highlighted that the lack of flow in games, such as New Zealand’s 47-17 victory over Italy and Australia’s 42-26 loss to France, detracts from the entertainment value.
The issue of lengthy delays was also evident in the match between Fiji and England, where officials spent considerable time reviewing an incident involving Simione Kuruvoli and Ellis Genge. Wilson emphasised that if such stoppages become the norm, it will be challenging for any game to maintain an entertaining flow. He also pointed out that TMOs were observed reminding on-field officials of basic rules during the All Blacks versus Italy game, which he deemed unacceptable.
Another former All Black, Angus Ta’avao, echoed these sentiments, expressing confusion as a viewer at home due to the TMO interventions. He noted that the constant checking of decisions, particularly after a try and conversion, disrupts the game’s rhythm and can be frustrating for fans, especially those new to the sport.
Coaches and players weigh in
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie also expressed his concerns about the TMO process following the team’s match against Italy. He highlighted the significant number of interruptions during the game, which made it difficult for players and fans to celebrate tries immediately. Rennie humorously remarked on his previous comments about the TMO, suggesting he might have been too vocal.
He further elaborated on the challenges of having a diverse officiating team, comprising individuals from different nations such as Australia, England, France, and Wales, who may not have extensive experience working together. While acknowledging the importance of correct decisions, Rennie noted that the prolonged dialogue and time taken to reach conclusions led to numerous breaks in play, indicating a need for improvement in the process.
Despite the frustrations, one TMO intervention did benefit the All Blacks when a yellow card issued to Ruben Love was rescinded after review. Rennie mentioned that Love had been anxious about receiving a second yellow card in as many weeks, making the overturned decision a welcome outcome.
Rennie also observed that Italy’s tactics, including slowing down play at lineouts, contributed to the lack of rhythm in the game. He indicated that the team would provide feedback on these issues, particularly regarding the opposition’s actions that prevented them from playing at a high tempo.
Super Rugby’s alternative approach
Justin Marshall, another former All Black, suggested that World Rugby should consider adopting the TMO protocols used in Super Rugby. He noted that the southern hemisphere competition has implemented limitations on TMO intervention, which resulted in a faster-paced game during the 2026 season.
Under current World Rugby laws, the TMO has broad authority to intervene in almost any aspect of the game, which can dictate the flow of play. Marshall believes that the most effective solution would be to restrict TMO involvement to instances of foul play or during a try-scoring movement, similar to the approach taken in Super Rugby.
The frustration among players, coaches, and fans regarding TMO interventions highlights a growing debate within the sport about balancing accuracy with maintaining game flow and entertainment. The discussions come after Super Rugby Pacific organisers took steps to reduce the influence of video officials during the 2026 campaign.
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Source: planetrugby.com
