Former international match official Nigel Owens has weighed in on the controversy surrounding Eben Etzebeth and the viral Callum Sheedy header, saying rugby cannot take the moral high ground.
Etzebeth head injury controversy
South Africa's clash with Australia has been overshadowed by accusations that Etzebeth faked a head injury in order to later return to the field. Owens stressed that Rassie Erasmus and the South Africans insist they have done nothing wrong.
Owens admitted he does not know the ins and outs of the incident and is not accusing anyone of wrongdoing. However, he said that when officiating a rugby game, players will try to get away with whatever they can.
He referenced the Bloodgate scandal, where Tom Williams came off for blood and it was proven to be fake. Owens also noted that players have taken dives, hoping the opposition might be sanctioned.
Loopholes and protocols
Owens said if any player or coach can find a loophole in the laws, whether on the field or within match day, they will do it. That is why protocols are in place, including the match day doctor, a neutral medical official, to protect the integrity of the game and player safety.
He also highlighted the role of citing commissioners and match day commissioners in ensuring everything abides by the laws of the game. But he acknowledged people will still always try to find a loophole.
Callum Sheedy's header
Owens turned to the viral moment from the Scarlets v Cardiff game, where Callum Sheedy headed the ball. Some have called it innovative and brilliant, while others say it is contrary to good sportsmanship.
Owens noted there is nothing in law that specifically says a header is not allowed, unless it is deemed acts contrary to good sportsmanship. He recalled a referees' meeting years ago where it was agreed that if players were allowed to head the ball, coaches would bring in innovative plays to push boundaries.
He explained that instead of going for an interception, players might now try to header the ball to avoid the risk of a deliberate knock-on. Owens said he certainly does not want to see this become the norm. "It's not soccer. It's as simple as that," he said.
Lines that shouldn't be crossed
Regarding the Etzebeth incident, Owens said if there is a case to answer, it should be dealt with appropriately, as that would be crossing a line. If there is no case and everything was done within the laws and spirit of the game, then there is nothing to discuss.
He concluded that there will always be coaches and players willing to push the boundaries, and rugby is not immune. But he said there are lines that should not be crossed: "Gamesmanship, but when it comes to player welfare and player safety and the integrity of the game, then for me that's a non-negotiable."
