Rules, Scoring, and Gameplay

Basic Rules of Rugby

Rugby is played by two teams of 15 players over two halves of 40 minutes, making an 80-minute match. There are also seven replacements available per team. The aim is to win by scoring more points than the opponent.

Players may carry the ball forward or kick it forward, but they may only pass the ball backwards or sideways to teammates. This fundamental rule—that the ball cannot be passed forward—is one of the key distinctions that sets rugby apart from other football codes. No blocking is allowed, meaning players must use evasion or teamwork to advance the ball.

Play continues even after players are tackled on the field, making rugby unique in its continuous nature. When a tackle occurs, the ball carrier must release the ball immediately, and a ruck forms when at least one player from each team closes around the ball while on their feet. A maul occurs when the ball carrier is held by one or more opponents and one or more teammates bind on as well.

Scoring System

Points are gained through scoring tries or kicking goals. The scoring system is as follows:

Restarting Play: Key Set Pieces

When the ball goes out of bounds (crosses the touchline), play is restarted with a lineout. Forwards from each team assemble in a line, and one team’s hooker throws the ball straight into the middle. Teams use various formations, including lifting players, to retrieve the ball and put it back into play.

When infringements occur, a scrum is formed. Each team’s eight forwards bind together and connect with the opposing team’s forwards. The ball is thrown into the middle of the tunnel by the scrumhalf of the non-offending team. Both team’s hookers use their feet to try to move the ball while also pushing the other team backwards until the ball reaches the hindmost leg of one of their teammates, where they can claim possession.

Safety and Discipline

Though rugby players don’t wear pads or helmets, the techniques and rules of the sport make impact much safer than it might appear. Players are taught to use their arms and shoulders when making contact with opponents, with serious repercussions for any contact above the shoulders or dangerous styles of play.

Players caught disregarding these rules receive a yellow card and are sent to the “sin bin”—forced to sit out for 10 minutes in rugby fifteens and 2 minutes in rugby sevens. Serious offenses can result in a red card, with the chance of suspending the athlete for weeks.