Rugby league chiefs may pause controversial changes to tackle height

• Data shows 75% reduction in Super League head contact
• RFL argues coach-led interventions are having an effect

The Rugby Football League is ready to pause the controversial changes to tackle height in the professional game planned for 2025 which would have reduced the legal height to below the armpit, after data showed a reduction in head contact of 75% in Super League this year.

Rugby league has already approved the changes at amateur and academy level, with the intention to replicate the ruling at professional level next year after recommendations from the sport’s brain health committee, which is aimed at reducing the number of concussions suffered by players. However, that change could now be halted, the Guardian has been told.