The 2019 World Cup in Japan saw a record eight red cards awarded to players for foul play and most commonly high tackles.
A clamp down on tackle heights were applied by the officials which led to a significant rise in red cards – more than double the second highest number accumulated at the 1995 and 1999 tournaments.
The first sending off at the 2019 World Cup was given to USA flanker John Quill for a high shot on England’s Owen Farrell and in total four of the cards were awarded for high tackles.
The remaining red cards were for tip tackles and other forms of foul play but with the continued focus on tackle heights and concussion by World Rugby, 2023 in France is likely to see a similar number of players not finishing matches.
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