Rugby Australia Demands Accountability from World Rugby Over Lions Series-Deciding Try

Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh has called on World Rugby to provide accountability and an explanation following a controversial refereeing decision that awarded the British & Irish Lions a last-minute try in the second Test, clinching the series. The try, scored by Hugo Keenan, came after a disputed clearance by Welsh flanker Jac Morgan on Australian Carlo Tizzano, which Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt and Waugh argued involved illegal high contact contrary to World Rugby's player safety laws. Despite referee Andrea Piardi reviewing the incident and allowing the try to stand, Rugby Australia insists the decision undermines player welfare efforts and demands further review. Waugh, a former Wallaby himself, emphasized respect for referees but stressed the need for transparency and consistency in officiating decisions, especially given World Rugby's focus on player safety. The controversy has drawn widespread criticism from Australian rugby officials, with senior World Rugby officials due to meet in Sydney, where Waugh plans to raise these concerns. The Wallabies, though defeated, remain committed to a strong performance in the upcoming final Test in Sydney.