Rugby is a dynamic, contact team sport known for its unique blend of physicality and strategy. Played with an oval ball, it involves two teams of fifteen players each, aiming to score points by carrying, passing, or kicking the ball into the opposition's territory and grounding it in the goal area, known as a try, worth five points. Additional points can be scored through conversions, penalty kicks, and drop goals. Key skills include tackling, passing, running, and strategic positioning.
Unlike American football, play continues even after tackles are made, leading to a fast-paced, continuous game. Prominent in countries like England, New Zealand, South Africa, and Australia, rugby has major leagues such as Super Rugby, the English Premiership, and the French Top 14.
Rugby originated in the early 19th century at Rugby School in England, where it evolved from football. The sport quickly gained popularity, leading to the first set of written rules in 1845. Over time, it split into two distinct forms: Rugby Union and Rugby League, each with its own rules and number of players. In the early 20th century, Rugby Union turned professional, significantly changing the game's dynamics and increasing its global appeal. Major events like the Rugby World Cup, established in 1987, further elevated its international profile. Throughout its development, rugby has maintained its core values of teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship.
Rugby is set to expand globally, with increasing popularity in countries beyond its traditional strongholds like Japan and the USA. This growth is evident in events like the Rugby World Cup, which showcases diverse international talent. Innovations in technology and training methods are enhancing player performance and safety. Women's rugby is gaining momentum, promising greater gender equality in the sport.
Emerging variations like Rugby Sevens offer a faster-paced, more accessible version, appealing to a broader audience. These trends indicate a dynamic evolution, with rugby becoming more inclusive, technologically advanced, and globally recognized as a major sporting discipline.
There are two 40-minute halves that equal out to 80 minutes of playing time. Time is also affected on whether the match goes into extra time in knockout stages if so, there are two extra time periods that last 10 minutes each.
A scrum is a form of restarting play in rugby. It involving players jumping on each other and interlocking arms and head to fighting for possession of the ball when the ball is lost and neither team has possession.
Two teams of 15 players each fight for possession of the ball to score into the opposing endzone by carrying, passing, or kicking the ball. The match is started off with a kickoff and the receiving team can score to get five points.
