Freddie Steward has expressed his support for the Six Nations’ decision to introduce 20-minute red cards, describing the change as beneficial for the game. The England full-back, who experienced a controversial red card against Ireland two years ago, believes the new rule offers a fairer solution for teams and fans alike. Under the updated system, a player shown a red card can be replaced after 20 minutes, avoiding the long-term numerical disadvantage that often impacts the outcome of matches.
Steward, reflecting on his previous red card incident against Ireland, noted the importance of ensuring decisions are accurate due to their significant influence on Test matches. “The bunker system is really good,” he said. “It needs to be the right decision because it shapes campaigns for teams. You can lose games on a decision, and it really kills you. I’m glad strides are being taken to get it right.”
The full-back also highlighted the potential for the rule to enhance the experience for supporters. “You’ve seen red cards ruin Test matches,” he said. “Fans want a proper contest, and this change helps ensure that.”
Steward’s red card in the 2023 clash against Ireland was later rescinded after a disciplinary review determined it should have been a yellow card. Ireland, who led 10-6 at the time of the incident, went on to secure a 29-16 victory. With the new rule in place, Steward is optimistic about having a more positive experience in the upcoming championship.
Having been dropped last season and challenged by head coach Steve Borthwick to refine aspects of his game, Steward has worked to regain his form. His aerial ability, a critical skill in modern rugby, has become even more vital following the enforcement of laws against escort runners blocking chasers. To further develop his technique, Steward has been studying Australian Rules Football, focusing on the ways players use their knees to gain height and dominate aerial contests.
“A lot of the focus now is on how you can dominate the contest and create space,” Steward explained. “I’ve been watching AFL footage with the Leicester coaches, learning how those players use their knees to propel themselves higher and win collisions. It’s challenging with the new laws because clean catches are rare, and decision-making in split seconds is crucial. You need speed to generate the height and momentum to contest effectively. It’s a proper contest, which is great.”
In other Six Nations news, Ireland has suffered a setback with the loss of tighthead prop Tadhg Furlong, who has been ruled out of Saturday’s match due to a calf injury. Furlong, who missed Ireland’s November Tests, had hoped to return for the tournament opener but experienced a recurrence of the injury during training. He has returned to Dublin for further assessment, leaving Finlay Bealham as the likely replacement in the No. 3 jersey.
Despite Furlong’s absence, Ireland received a boost with the return of winger James Lowe and hooker Dan Sheehan to the squad. Both players participated in Leinster’s recent match against the Stormers, with Lowe making his first appearance of the season and Sheehan captaining the team. Their successful returns provide Ireland’s stand-in head coach Simon Easterby with some positive news ahead of the championship.
As the Six Nations approaches, these developments highlight the evolving dynamics of the competition. From rule changes aimed at preserving fairness to the preparation and fitness of key players, teams and fans alike are eagerly anticipating the action to come.
