There was a fair amount of skill on show all over the rugby world this past weekend, with Sevu Reece’s display of keeping the ball alive perhaps being missed by onlookers.
Now, we’re all familiar – or should be in any case – of the much talked about KBA (Keep Ball Alive) employed by Ronan O’Gara’s La Rochelle side, but this effort from the All Black winger was something out of the ordinary playbook.
Reece expertly pulled the proverbial rabbit out of the hat to ensure he was able to play on despite the ball seemingly being kicked out of play by the opposition.
But, as highlighted by esteemed Irish journalist Murray Kinsella, Reece took advantage of the Law 18.2 (b), which describes how Reece was able to jump from outside the pitch to reclaim the ball, therefore taking it in-field.
Remarkable from Sevu Reece to keep the ball in play, taking advantage of Law 18.2 (b). pic.twitter.com/YhnBf7zKCW
— Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) May 23, 2021
The law states that this is permitted when: “A player jumps, from within or outside the playing area, and catches the ball, and then lands in the playing area, regardless of whether the ball reached the plane of touch.”
A number of people on social media have questioned the legality of Reece’s dramatic display of athleticism, stating that he actually had one foot out of play when he first touched the ball, before bringing it back onto the pitch.
Others have voiced their opinons about having Law 18.2 (b) in the game altogether, claiming that a player should only be able to play the ball while they themselves are on the field.
Regardless of the Law and how it may or may not vary in the future, it’s safe to say that this sort of thing goes down pretty well.
Reece was sensational in the Crusaders’ victory over the Reds, scoring two tries, while Richie Mo’unga once again starred in the 10 jersey.
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