EPCR follow Six Nations suit with fan-friendly TMO shift

Fans attending this weekend’s Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup semi-finals will be able to hear real-time referee and TMO discussions over the stadium public address systems.

The Switzerland-based body confirmed the introduction of live audio feeds for the final stages of the competition as they follow suit with recent Test rugby tournaments.

It is the first time this feature will be used in the Investec Champions Cup and it will also be implemented for both the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup finals in Cardiff later this month.

Referee microphones are already broadcast into stadiums during international competitions such as the Six Nations, whole imilar initiatives are currently being trialled in the United Rugby Championship and Gallagher Premiership.

“Allowing fans to hear how decisions are made on the pitch will enhance the matchday experience and help educate spectators in real time,” said EPCR’s Head of Match Officials Tony Spreadbury. “It’s an exciting step towards making the game more accessible to newcomers, and we’re thrilled to introduce this feature during such a pivotal stage of the competition.”

Fixture

Investec Champions Cup

Leinster

34 - 37

Full-time

Northampton

All Stats and Data

The governing body say they hope the move will add to the in-stadium atmosphere and improve transparency for supporters attending the semi-finals, not least with TMO decisions becoming an increasingly key part of the game over the last decade.

It’s a move that’s generally been well received by fans until now.

Packed crowds are expected at the Aviva Stadium and Matmut Atlantique for the Investec Champions Cup matches, and at Edinburgh’s Hive Stadium and Matmut Stadium de Gerland for the EPCR Challenge Cup semi-finals. An experienced group of officials representing seven different unions will oversee the four semi-final fixtures.

EPCR confirmed the appointments earlier this week. Pierre Brousset of France will referee Saturday’s Champions Cup semi-final between Leinster Rugby and Northampton Saints at the Aviva Stadium.

Ireland’s Andrew Brace will officiate the all-French clash between Union Bordeaux-Bègles and defending champions Toulouse at Matmut Atlantique on Sunday.

In the EPCR Challenge Cup, Georgia’s Nika Amashukeli will take charge of the semi-final between Edinburgh and Bath on Saturday at Hive Stadium. England’s Karl Dickson will referee Sunday’s match between Lyon Olympique Universitaire and Racing 92 at Matmut Stadium de Gerland.