Explained: the ‘escorting’ rule that has enraged Steve Borthwick

Steve Borthwick has criticised the ‘escorting’ rule that allows a player to be shepherded after making a kick

The England coach said the law is “unfair” and “unnatural” and wants it to be reviewed

Steve Borthwick has criticised the ‘escorting’ rule that allows a player to be shepherded after making a kick, saying it is “unfair” and “unnatural”.

The England coach said he wants the law to be reviewed, adding that it is “not in the spirit of the game”.

The law states that a player who kicks the ball can be shepherded by an opponent for up to 10 metres, provided they do not impede their progress.

This means that the kicker can be guided towards touch or away from dangerous areas of the pitch.

However, Borthwick believes that the law is unfair because it gives the defending team an advantage.

He said: “I think it’s an unfair law. It’s not in the spirit of the game. It’s not natural.

"The player who kicks the ball should be able to run freely and not be impeded by an opponent.”

Borthwick’s comments come after England were penalised for escorting during their Six Nations match against Scotland.

The penalty allowed Scotland to kick a goal and win the match 29-23.

Borthwick said he was “frustrated” by the decision and called for the law to be reviewed.

He said: “I think it’s something that needs to be looked at. I think it’s something that needs to be changed.

"I think it’s something that’s not in the spirit of the game.”

The law is not new, but it has been brought into focus by Borthwick’s comments.

It is likely to be discussed at the next meeting of the World Rugby Laws Committee.