World Rugby’s simplified law book launches today with the aim of enhancing accessibility and understanding without altering the laws themselves.

The lawbook, which can presently be accessed in three languages at http://worldrugby.org/laws and downloaded via the iTunes App store, is the product of almost two years’ work by a specialist group.

The result is a law book that is more logically laid out, clearer in its explanations and, with various repetitions and contradictions removed, 42 per cent shorter than the current version.

World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont said: "As our game continues to grow around the world, we continue to strive to make the sport as accessible to all. The laws can be difficult to understand for new participants and fans and the new law book goes a long way towards simplifying it and making it easier to understand for players, coaches, referees and the viewing public,

"This project has been a truly collaborative effort with every union given the opportunity to contribute. I’d like to thank them and the working group for their full commitment to an extensive and important process. I believe what they have produced will make a big difference to the game as we seek to make rugby even more accessible to all."

The new law book will shortly be printed and distributed in the usual way in multiple languages, while the laws exam can be undertaken here.