According to Six Nations Rugby, the red card variation that will be introduced during the autumn tests ensures that players deemed to commit deliberate and dangerous offences receive the full sanctioning, and subsequent disciplinary process, with the team being reduced to 14 men for the remainder of the game.

The November Test matches will include the introduction of a trial of 20-minute red cards for the first time in the northern hemisphere.

French authorities are joining forces with players to oppose plans by World Rugby to change its regulations with the introduction of a 20-minute red card.