England v South Africa: Freddie Steward relishing new contestable kicking laws

New laws designed to make the game more entertaining

England full-back Freddie Steward is relishing the prospect of the new contestable kicking laws that will be in operation when the Springboks visit Twickenham on Saturday.

The amendments, which were trialled in the recent Autumn Nations Series, are designed to make the game more entertaining and reduce the number of stoppages.

Steward can exploit the new laws

Steward, who is one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in the world, believes the new laws will suit his game.

“With the new laws, there’s going to be a lot more ball in play,” Steward told The Guardian. “Teams are going to have to be a lot more accurate with their kicking, and that’s something I think I can exploit.”

50:22 a key new law

One of the most significant new laws is the 50:22 rule, which allows a team to kick the ball into touch inside their own half and still retain possession if an opposition player catches it.

This law is designed to encourage teams to kick more often, and Steward believes it will lead to more attacking opportunities.

Other laws being trialled

Other laws being trialled include the removal of the offside line at rucks and mauls, and the introduction of a new offside line at the breakdown.

These changes are designed to speed up the game and reduce the number of stoppages.

Steward excited to exploit law changes

Steward is excited about the prospect of playing under the new laws, and he believes they will benefit England.

“I think these new laws are going to make the game more exciting for fans and players alike,” Steward said. “I can’t wait to get out there and play under them.”