Inga Tuigamala: New rules guiding rugby in right direction

The signs are very promising.

I've been impressed with the effect the new rule interpretations are having on rugby.

No, I'm not jumping around, waving the arms in total glee ... yet. The jury has to remain out for now.

But there is less kicking, we've had some excellent spectacles, the game is flowing nicely, and I think rugby is on the right track.

Ironically, one of the problems may actually be that we are seeing too many tries. We really did have a basketball score when the Chiefs played the Lions. What coach could ever have envisaged his side scoring 65 points and losing?

In the past, we've had blowouts with one side dominating, with say a 90-12 type of scoreline. But 72-65? Bizarre.

Perhaps the new emphasis on the attacking side of the game, with teams more able to hold possession, means that defences are taking time to adjust and catch up.

Another benefit is that the referees appear more assured with greater certainty around the breakdown. There was so much confusion previously.

I also feel that the game may have become safer, that we will see fewer injuries. It appears that players are staying on their feet more, instead of diving in and zeroing in on the ball. It is very obvious that players are not diving lower than their hips, which has created one of the more dangerous areas previously. We have yet to see what effect the new game will have on selections but it could well swing things certain players' way.

The Blues face a tough task in Queensland this week. The Reds, against all expectations, dealt to the Crusaders and had a real spring in their step. The Reds have been the most disappointing Australasian side in the competition over the years, but may have turned a corner. This match should be close, but unfortunately I think the Reds might just get home.

And I'm sure the Crusaders will bounce back against the Sharks. The defeat in Brisbane was a one-off dip in their standards. Richie McCaw is on the way back, and that changes everything.

A quick note on the Six Nations. The Northern Hemisphere competition has been pretty poor so far. Going on that, I can't see a World Cup-winner coming from that lot next year.