The NRL has confirmed a ‘‘bunker’’ will be introduced next season to help with video referee reviews.
The central command centre, which will use Hawk-Eye technology as seen in cricket, will be based at NEP Australia at Australian Technology Park in Eveleigh, Sydney.
Head of Football Todd Greenberg said the bunker had the potential to halve the time it took to make video referee decisions and would deliver more accurate results.
“We have been through an exhaustive trial process because this is so important for our fans,” he said.
“Now that it has been approved by the [Australian Rugby League] commission we will begin work on the facility so it is up and running in time for the start of the 2016 season.”
“Our video referees will be using state-of-the-art technology.
“We will control the vision, and the improved technology means we will be able to make informed decisions much quicker.
“Our video referees will have access to multiple camera angles and playback control for all reviewable decisions.
‘‘Touch screen interfaces, zoom functions and split screens will further enhance the decision making process.’’
Greenberg said the goal was to significantly reduce decision making time.
“Recent trials have shown that video referees can review decisions in an average of about 40 seconds when they have relevant angles and enhanced video review technology available at their fingertips,’’ he said.
“That’s half the current average time our video referees take to make a decision and that will be our target next season.”
The ‘‘bunker’’ will be introduced in conjunction with a reduction in interchanges and the introduction of a shot clock to achieve the NRL’s objective of more game continuity.
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