Ex-Boks back 9-point try rule

Cape Town - Two former Springboks are in favour of the new 9-point try-scoring rule set to be introduced in this year’s Varsity Cup.

During this year’s Varsity Cup, a try will still worth five points, but there will be bonus points allocated depending on where the move started.

If a team scores from a move that started between the halfway line and the opponent's 22m line, then the scoring team will be awarded two bonus points - to make the score worth seven.

If the move starts in the attacking side's own half and they keep possession throughout and score, then four bonus points will be allocated - to make the try worth nine points.

Chester Williams, who will coach UWC in the Varsity Shield competition, says the new ruling will be good for South African rugby.

“It will force coaches to place greater emphasis on skills rather than suppress it,” Williams told Netwerk24.

“You can’t play in a structure like the Springboks. Rugby isn’t made to play like that. We saw during last year’s Rugby World Cup that the tournament can’t be won by just penalties anymore. You have to be able to score tries.”

Brendan Venter, who was Williams’ team-mate during the Springboks’ victorious 1995 Rugby World Cup campaign, is also in favour of the new rules.

He tweeted the following on Friday:

Why so negative about the 9 point tries. Lots of advantages. Loosing team always in with a shout. Keeps the game more interesting.

— Brendan Venter (@BrendanVenter) January 22, 2016

When you play from deep opposition wings are back. More space. If they stand up. More space to kick into. Bouncing ball keeps it interesting

— Brendan Venter (@BrendanVenter) January 22, 2016

If you run more trying to score more tries there will be more turnovers which then creates more opportunities for tries.

— Brendan Venter (@BrendanVenter) January 22, 2016