World Rugby have made their position clear on the controversial 7-1 bench split made famous by the Springboks, despite renewed calls for change from former referee Nigel Owens.

South Africa's famous Bomb Squad has become one of the most talked-about tactics in rugby under Rassie Erasmus.

The strategy allows the four-time world champions to name seven forwards and just one back among their replacements.

However, critics believe the tactic gives teams with powerful forward packs an unfair advantage.

Nigel Owens calls for major change

Former international referee Nigel Owens recently renewed his criticism of rugby's replacement rules.

Speaking about changes he would make to the sport, Owens said:

"The first thing I do, I would reduce the amount of substitutions."

He added:

"I think eight players on the bench is too much."

As RUCK previously reported, Owens believes reducing replacements would encourage players to improve their fitness and create more space.

Such a change would effectively end the Springboks' controversial 7-1 strategy.

World Rugby confirm decision

Despite the criticism, World Rugby have already confirmed they have no plans to ban the tactic.

Speaking in April 2025, chief executive Alan Gilpin revealed that medical research had found no evidence that heavily forward-loaded benches increased injury risks.

"We looked at it from a science, medicine perspective."

Gilpin explained that the research did not establish that introducing fresh players late in matches created a greater injury risk.

He added:

"Ultimately, there are a lot of different ways to win a rugby match."

World Rugby chairman Brett Robinson also acknowledged concerns about whether the tactic respected the spirit of the game.

What happens before the 2027 World Cup?

For now, Erasmus remains free to use his Bomb Squad approach.

France have also adopted the tactic, demonstrating that it is no longer exclusive to South Africa.

With the 2027 Rugby World Cup approaching, the debate could continue.

However, no new restriction on 7-1 benches has been confirmed, meaning the Springboks can continue using their controversial strategy.