By Priscilla Jepchumba The French rugby authorities and players have opposed the 20-minute red card proposal from World Rugby because it could potentially harm

Debate continues to rage over the controversial 20-minute red which is edging closer to a global trial after World Rugby proposed the law amendment.

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.

The French Rugby Federation expresses its "firm opposition" to the proposed 20-minute red card, saying it is an "unacceptable step backwards" by World Rugby.

French rugby bodies have issued a combined statement revealing their opposition to World Rugby's plans to institute a global trial of the 20-minute red card.

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.