The Vodacom URC’s chiefs are reportedly considering following in the World Cup’s footsteps and implementing the Bunker system to help the tournament’s referees.
The Foul Play Review Official, also known as the Bunker, was used during this year’s World Cup in France, where referees could refer dangerous play to an independent panel for review.
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The play committing the offence would be shown a yellow card and during their 10-minute period off the field, the ‘Bunker’ would decide whether the punishment would remain as a yellow or be upgraded to a red card.
Sunday newspaper Rapport reported that Tappe Henning, the Vodacom URC’s head of match officials, is considering introducing the system to the tournament, but a final decision has not yet been made.
The cost of implementing the Bunker is among the factors being considered, along with where the review officials would be located across different broadcasters and countries.
Among the major positives of the Bunker is that it saves time and takes the pressure off when the on-field referees and TMO are not sure if a dangerous tackle constitutes a yellow or red card.
“We are definitely looking at it, but there are teams from five different countries participating and therefore it is a challenge,” Henning said.
“There is a lot of work to be done before we can make a decision. However, we are positive about investigating everything and that it can be valuable for our competition.”
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