Rugby is played between two teams, most commonly of 15 players each, trying to advance the ball into the opponent’s territory to score points by grounding the ball in the in-goal area (a “try”)[4].
The game begins with a kick-off, after which play continues until a stoppage, such as a foul, the ball going out of bounds, or a score[1].
- Passing: The ball may only be passed or thrown backward or sideways. Forward passes are not allowed and will result in a scrum for the opposing team[1][2].
- Kicking: Players can kick the ball in any direction. Kicking is often used to gain territory or attempt to score[2][4].
- Scoring: The main way to score is a try, achieved by touching the ball down in the opponent’s in-goal area (worth 5 points). After a try, the scoring team attempts a conversion kick for 2 extra points[4].
- Tackling: Only the ball carrier may be tackled, and tackles must be made below the shoulders for safety. After a tackle, both the tackler and the tackled player must release each other and the ball, allowing play to continue[1][5].
- Offside: Players must stay behind the ball. Being ahead of the ball (offside) isn’t always a penalty, but joining play from an offside position results in a penalty[5].
- Scrum: Used to restart play after certain rule infringements. Eight players from each team bind together and push against the opposition to compete for the ball, which is put into the scrum’s center[1][2][6].
- Ruck: Forms when the ball is on the ground after a tackle and at least one player from each team binds in to compete. No hands may be used; the ball is moved by players’ feet until it emerges and play can continue[5][6].
- Maul: Occurs when the ball carrier is held up but remains standing, and teammates and opponents bind onto them to contest for the ball[1][5][6].
- Lineout: Restarts play after the ball or player goes out of bounds. Players from each team line up, and the ball is thrown straight down the line between them. Teammates may lift a player to catch the ball[6][7].
- Field and Time: Matches are played on a rectangular field (the pitch) for 80 minutes, split into two halves[4].
Throughout the game, respect for the referee’s decisions is essential, as they are in charge of enforcing the laws of the game[5].
References
- [1] Rugby Rules for Dummies: A Beginner’s Guide to Understanding the Game
- [2] Rugby Rules – Game Time, Points & More – spized
- [4] Rugby 101 – How the Sport Works | USA Rugby
- [5] Rugby Union – A Beginner’s Guide (PDF)
- [6] Rugby For Dummies Cheat Sheet
- [7] Learn the basics with Team USA rugby players | Paris Olympics