Should goal-kicking rules be changed in women’s rugby? England head coach Simon Middleton says current system “unfair” and calls for players to have option of taking conversions from nearer the posts; England have converted eight of the 22 tries they have scored in the 2023 Six Nations
Last Updated: 12/04/23 6:57pm
Holly Aitchison kicking during England’s win over Italy last time out in the Six Nations
England head coach Simon Middleton feels goal-kicking rules in women’s rugby union should be altered, saying the current regulations are “unfair” for female players.
England have converted eight of 22 tries scored in wins over Scotland and Italy across the first two rounds of the Women’s Six Nations.
Players must take a conversion in line with where the try-scorer grounded the ball but Middleton thinks that should change in the women’s game with the option to take kicks nearer the posts.
Speaking on Wednesday, Middleton said: “I have a view on it. I think we should change the parameters for goal kicking.
Emma Sing will start at full-back when England play Wales on Saturday and take over as goal kicker
“If a try is scored [within five metres of the touchline], the option should be there, maybe not to bring it into the 15-metre line, but maybe 10 metres from the touchline.
“If you gave someone the option of kicking from the touchline or bringing it 10 metres in, I would hazard a guess that most kickers in the female game would bring it in.
“I think that cou …