Quote ="AdmiralHanson"The forming of the scrum with any players around, in order for the ref to call time off and usually in the dying minutes of the game.
Either : Get the players to request time off to the official and then contest the scrum with those players present, regardless of their field position.
Or : Continue to run the clock down until the players you want to form the scrum / regular pack are present.
It seems unfair that the ref calls time off, only for the pack's make up to radically change using the benefit of players that have strolled back whilst the clock has stopped.
This shouldn't have a massive impact on the game, as most teams at various points in the game, seem to play a back as a 2nd row / loose forward ....'"
I would like to see the rule modified to the way they have it Australia (I know nicking their rules - shame on me)
The players that form the scrum have to stay bound for the clock to remain stopped, if any player detaches from the scrum, the clock restarts immediately - saw it the other day with only seconds left and Billy Slater lifted his head from LF position - time ran out and any chance Melbourne had for a last second miracle play was lost!
I'd also get rid of the wrestling in the tackle rubbish - complete tackle, roll away, to control the restart, make sure the ball is played correctly with the foot, none of this 'making an effort' nonsense! This would help to speed up the game making it more attractive than the dross we seem to be served up most weeks but in a more controlled manner (imo).