Know the game: what smart fans need to know about Rugby Union

Where football is a gentleman’s game played by hooligans, rugby is a hooligan’s game played by gentlemen. Ah, rugby, the sport where a group of 15 players smash into each other with the aim of moving a leather ball between the posts at each end.

Difference between Rugby Union and Rugby League

There are two codes of rugby: rugby union and rugby league. Rugby union football originated in English schools, particularly Rugby School, where William Webb Ellis is credited with inventing the game by picking up the ball and running with it.

The split between rugby union football and association football occurred in the 19th century, with association football (soccer) formalising rules that banned running with the ball in hand, leading to the development of the two distinct codes.

Supporters of the latter, in which teams comprise 13 rather than 15 players, expect a faster-paced game, and it is especially popular in northern England, as well as amongst the British Commonwealth nations of England, Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

Rugby union has a more global appeal to nations outside the former British colonies, gaining widespread recognition in Argentina, Japan, Georgia, and the USA. The spread of rugby union was significantly aided by the formation of early clubs and the establishment of club competitions, which helped institutionalise the sport worldwide. 

This guide will delve into rugby union.

Newcomers to the game often ponder, ‘why does the game keep stopping?’ ‘How on earth does a scrum work?’

Also, ‘why can’t players throw the ball forward?’

Rugby is fascinating to watch, but how does one follow all the rules? 

Well, this article will take you through the basics, and once you have learnt it, the game is a lot simpler than you think to follow.

Rugby Union Basics

Aim of the Game

The aim of playing rugby union is to carry the ball over the opponent’s line, known as a ‘try’ line and ground the ball to score a ‘try.’

Sounds simple really?

Wrong!

Players can run forward, but they can only pass the ball backwards, meaning that teammates must get behind the player with the ball to be able to receive a pass. Players can kick the ball forwards – but their teammates must be behind the ball at the moment it is kicked. The ball may only travel forward by being carried or kicked. When being handled, it must move backwards from the player passing it.

The Ball

A rugby ball is oval, like an American football but without the laces. Being oval in shape, the ball is therefore far less predictable than a round ball in how it bounces. Its design allows it to torpedo quickly through the air when passed or kicked correctly.

The Posts

Arranged in an H-shape, the posts are the target for drop-goals and penalty goals. The ball must fly between the vertical posts and over the horizontal crossbar. Drop-goals are scored from open play, penalties after the referee has spotted an infringement.

Scoring

In rugby union, there are four ways in which a team can accumulate points:

• Try (5 points) – When the ball is forced to the ground once over the try line. A penalty try is awarded if a player probably would have scored but was fouled by the opposing team at the last moment. Similar to a penalty being awarded in football when a player is fouled in the penalty area.
• Conversion (2 points) – Once a try is scored, the team who scored the try can add a further two points by kicking the ball between the goal posts but over the crossbar from a position in line to where the try was scored.
• Drop Goal (3 points) – In open play, a player kicks the ball through the goal posts but over the crossbar. Usually only attempted by players with excellent kicking skills.
• Penalty (3 points) – When a penalty is awarded, the infringed team can decide to kick for a goal as opposed to building up a new play.

The try is the ultimate objective in rugby, awarded after the ball has been grounded by hand anywhere behind the opposition’s goal line. However, it is entirely possible to win a game of rugby without scoring a try, even when conceding one or more.

Player Positions

The Forwards

Props

Props have shirt numbers 1 and 3 and anchor themselves either side of the hooker in the scrum, providing weight in the scrum and aiding in lifting lineout jumpers (more on this below). In rucks and mauls (again, more below), props are essential in bludgeoning the opposition’s defences.

Hooker

The hooker wears the number 2 shirt and performs two crucial roles on the pitch. Inside the scrum, they are the players who win possession of the ball and ‘hook’ it back (with their feet). In the lineout, they are the player who throws the ball.

Locks

Locks who wear shirt numbers 4 and 5 are typically the tallest members of the team; thus, they are responsible for winning the balls from lineouts and restarts. Secondly, they provide additional strength in scrums, rucks and mauls.

Flankers

During turnovers (anyone from the opposing team who tries to run with the ball), it is the flanker’s role to win possession of the ball by tackling those who are holding. Flankers wear the numbers 6 and 7 shirts.

Number 8

The number 8 (with the shirt number 8) is positioned at the very back of scrums and once received the ball carries it forward into open play.

The Backs

Scrum Half

The scrum-half (wearing the number 9 shirt) connects the forwards and backs at the scrum and lineouts, deciding whether to distribute a quick ball to the fast-moving backs or keep it close to the slower-moving but more powerful forwards. The scrum-half is a vital cog between the forwards and backs of a team.

Fly Half

The fly-half is one of the most influential players in a rugby team. Not only are they typically the team’s points kicker for drop goals, penalties and conversions; but they are also the most creative, searching for chinks in the opposition’s armour where they can encourage offensive running. Needless to say, the fly-half is the team’s most creative player and wears the number 10 jersey.

Wings

The wings wear either shirt numbers 11 and 14 and are the fastest sprinters of the team, providing the injection of speed to outrun the opposition and score tries. At times, they are required to provide some defensive protection. Wings position themselves on the sides of the field.

Centres

The centres are vital in both attack and defence. They will tackle the opposing team, using their speed and power to breach defences. Although deemed as backs, centres (wearing shirt numbers 12 and 13) can act as weighty forwards as well.

Full Back

The last line of defence, the fullback (wearing jersey number 15) must be confident under a high ball, have an excellent boot to clear the lines and a try-saving tackle that could stop a runaway train. Fullbacks can double up as kickers for points scoring if they are deemed better at kicking than the fly-half.

The Scrum

The scrum is a means of restarting play, used if there has been a minor infringement (for example, if the ball is passed forward, known as a ‘knock-on’), or if the ball becomes stuck in a ruck or a maul (more on that later).

Eight people from each team lock arms and face each other; they then interlock their heads with those on the opposition’s front row. The ball is then placed under the scrum by the scrum-half, between the two front rows, and the hookers compete for the ball, attempting to ‘hook’ it back.

The winner of the scrum can keep the ball on the ground and strive to drive the opposition down the field. Alternatively, they can pass the ball to the scrum-half who will play the ball ‘out’ to the backs.

The Line Out

If the ball leaves the field by the sides, then a lineout is a way for the ball to re-enter open play.

The forwards assemble in two parallel lines, one metre apart from each other. The hooker from the team who did not take the ball off the field throws the ball high in the air down the space between the two lines of players. Any player in the lineout who successfully catches the ball can either keep it and set up a maul or pass it on.

The hooker is not permitted to throw the ball to his team; they must throw right down the centre of the corridor between the two lines. The only advantage gained for the team who throws the ball in the line out is that the hooker throwing the ball knows when their team will jump, namely the locks.

To catch the ball in a lineout, the catcher is lifted by their teammates while jumping high to catch the ball. The opposition is not permitted to touch a catcher whilst they are in the air, and holding, shoving or levering are all offences punishable by a penalty kick.

Passing and kicking: the core skills

Passing and kicking are at the heart of rugby union, shaping every phase of play and often determining which team emerges victorious. According to World Rugby, the rules of rugby football are clear: players can only pass the ball laterally or backwards—never forward. This unique aspect of rugby rules means that teamwork, timing, and spatial awareness are essential for moving the ball upfield.

A well-timed pass can unlock a defence, while a poor one can hand possession to the other team. Players must master the art of spinning the ball accurately to teammates, often under intense pressure. Kicking, meanwhile, is both a tactical and scoring weapon. Whether it’s a booming punt to gain territory, a delicate grubber to slip behind defenders, or a high kick to contest possession, kicking requires precision and vision. Drop goals and penalty kicks are crucial for scoring points, especially in close matches.

In rugby, the ability to pass and kick effectively, while always respecting the rule against moving the ball forward by hand, separates the good teams from the great. These core skills, governed by World Rugby, are what make rugby football such a dynamic and strategic game.

Why does Rugby Union keep stopping all the time?

In rugby union, it is puzzling why the referee has blown the whistle and stopped play. Below are listed the most common infringements and violations that cause the referee to pause the game.

For certain serious infringements, players can be suspended for several weeks, depending on the severity of the offence.

Playing advantage

An advantage occurs when the referee keeps the ball in play despite a violation if continued play is likely to benefit the team that has been infringed. If the referee determines that there is no benefit to the non-offending side, they will stop the game and bring play back to the point where the infringement occurred.

Forward pass or knock-on

With players running forward, frequently, passes that were intended to go back, often end up going forward. Likewise, players accidentally knock the ball forward when they lose grip on it. If this occurs, the referee will stop play, and the teams will begin a scrum.

Not releasing the ball

When a player has been tackled, two things must happen – first, those who tackled must release the player they brought down, and the person tackled must immediately release the ball. Failing to do so will leave an infringement being called and a stop in play.

Maul v ruck

In a maul, the ball is held off the floor and in players hands, and they must remain standing and move along simultaneously.

Alternatively, in a ruck, the ball is grounded and must not be handled by any players, only using their feet to ‘ruck’ the ball backwards.

Not rolling away from the ruck

When a ruck or maul is formed, any players on the ground must roll away as fast as

humanly possible. If they do not, they concede a penalty to the opposition team.

Joining a ruck/maul from the side and not from behind

If a player wishes to join either a ruck or a maul, then they must join the play from the back and not enter from the sides. Participating from the side counts as ‘offside’ and a penalty is awarded.

Ball Becomes Unplayable

The ball becomes unplayable when it cannot be passed to another player whether in a scrum, ruck or maul. Simply put, when a huge mass of bodies is piled up, the ball is stuck under them! If this occurs, the referee awards a scrum to the team going forward before the ball becomes unplayable. For a maul, the scrum goes to the team not in possession when the maul begins.

Foul play and discipline in rugby union

Rugby union is a tough, physical sport, but it’s also built on respect and discipline. World Rugby has established strict laws to protect players and ensure fair play. Foul play, such as high tackles, dangerous play, or collapsing a scrum, can quickly turn a match on its head. Referees are vigilant for any actions that put player safety at risk or undermine the spirit of the game.

When foul play occurs, the non-offending team is awarded a penalty, and the offending player may receive a yellow card (resulting in ten minutes in the sin bin) or a red card (meaning they’re sent off for the rest of the game). Repeated infringements or a lack of discipline can leave a team shorthanded and vulnerable, often swinging momentum in favour of the opposing team.

Discipline isn’t just about avoiding penalties; it’s about playing hard but fairly, respecting officials, and keeping a cool head under pressure. Teams that manage to walk this fine line are often the ones lifting trophies at the end of the season.

Replacements and substitutions: managing the squad

Rugby union is a game of relentless intensity, and managing player fatigue and injuries is a crucial part of modern squad management. During international matches and most top-level games, each team is allowed a set number of replacements—usually up to eight. These substitutions can be made for injuries, tactical reasons, or simply to inject fresh energy into the team.

Coaches must be strategic with their substitutions, balancing the need to protect key players with the desire to maintain momentum. Bringing on a powerful forward late in the game can help secure a lead, while a speedy back might be introduced to chase a comeback. Injuries are an inevitable part of rugby, and having a strong bench ensures that teams can adapt to whatever the match throws at them.

Effective use of substitutions can be the difference between winning and losing, especially in the closing stages of close matches. It’s all part of the chess match that makes rugby union such a compelling game.

Officials and offences: who’s in charge?

Every rugby union match is overseen by a team of officials, led by the referee and supported by assistant referees. These officials are the guardians of the game, ensuring that rugby football is played according to the laws set by World Rugby. Their job is to spot offences—like forward passes, knock-ons, or offside—and to award penalties or free kicks when the rules are broken.

The referee’s authority on the field is absolute, and their decisions are final. Teams and players are expected to respect the officials at all times; arguing or showing dissent can result in further penalties or even disciplinary action. The officials’ primary goal is to keep the game safe, fair, and flowing smoothly, allowing both teams to showcase their skills within the framework of rugby’s rules.

Without the watchful eyes of referees and their assistants, the game would quickly descend into chaos. Their presence ensures that rugby remains a sport where respect, discipline, and fair play are always at the forefront.

Rugby Union as a global game

Rugby union’s popularity is growing, with countries across the Americas, Africa, Europe, and Oceania following and participating in the game. World Rugby is the international governing body overseeing the sport, with member unions from over 100 countries. Rugby union is now recognised as a popular sport globally, with a growing number of countries participating at both club and international levels.

The 15-person game discussed in this article has three key tournaments that fans around the world follow:

Six Nations Championship

The Six Nations Championship is an annual international rugby union tournament between England, France, Ireland, Italy, Scotland and Wales. 

The six nations concerned are the top-tiered sides that originate from the northern hemisphere. Played around February/March each year, with each time playing each other once (home advantage is rotated each year) – the winners are awarded a trophy.

Rugby Championship

The southern hemisphere equivalent of the Six Nations, with Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa as participants, the Rugby Championship is also played annually. 

Before 2012, Argentina joined the tournament known once known as the Tri-Nations Championship. Unlike the Six Nations, the four teams play each other twice, both home and away, with games played from August to October.

Rugby World Cup

The Rugby World Cup is the premier international rugby event, held every four years, with the winners awarded the Webb Ellis Cup (the man credited with inventing the game of rugby by picking up a football and running). The tournament features teams from across the world, however, is heavily dominated by the participants of the Six Nations and Rugby Championship. Four countries have won the competition – New Zealand (thrice), Australia (twice) and South Africa (four times) and England (once).

Rugby Sevens

Rugby sevens, a fast-paced variant of the game with seven players per side, has gained international prominence. Sevens is now an Olympic sport, featured in the Olympic Games, and is celebrated in major tournaments such as the Hong Kong Sevens and Rugby World Cup Sevens.

Women’s Rugby: the fastest-growing side of the game

Women’s rugby is taking the world by storm, rapidly becoming one of the fastest-growing sports on the planet. The Women’s Rugby World Cup, first staged in 1991, has evolved into a showcase of international competition, drawing teams and fans from every corner of the globe. Under the guidance of World Rugby, women’s rugby follows the same core rules as the men’s game, with a few tweaks to reflect the unique strengths and style of female players.

What sets women’s rugby apart is its emphasis on speed, agility, and teamwork. Matches are often fast-paced and fiercely contested, with players demonstrating incredible skill and commitment. The rise of women’s rugby has brought new energy and diversity to the sport, inspiring a new generation of athletes and fans.

As more countries invest in women’s rugby programs and the profile of international tournaments continues to grow, the women’s game is set to become an even more important part of the global rugby landscape. Whether at the grassroots or the Rugby World Cup, women’s rugby is proving that the sport truly is for everyone.

How to bet on rugby union: know the game

Rugby union is a complex, physically intense sport that combines brute strength with strategy, discipline, and fast-paced action. Whether you’re following domestic leagues, international tournaments like the Six Nations, or the Rugby World Cup, understanding the structure and flow of the game gives fans a serious edge.

Rugby union offers a wide range of betting opportunities:

• Match winner – back the team you believe will win.
• Winning margin – predict how many points will separate the teams.
• Total points (over/under) – wager on the total score of the game.
• Try scorer markets – bet on which player will score the first or any try.
• Half-time/full-time – predict the result at both intervals.
• Handicap betting – level the field by giving one team a points start.

Smart bettors study:

• Team form and injuries – squad depth and fitness can heavily affect outcomes.
• Weather conditions – rain and wind often reduce scoring and change tactics.
• Playing style – some teams favour kicking and territory, others play expansive rugby.
• Head-to-head records – historical matchups can hint at tactical mismatches.
• Discipline – penalty counts and cards can swing momentum.

Understanding rugby odds is vital.

Shorter odds often reflect heavy favourites, while longer odds present potential value on underdogs or upsets. Different odds formats, such as fractional, decimal, or American, indicate how much money you can win or need to bet to achieve a certain payout, making it essential to understand how your stake translates into potential monetary returns. Reading line-ups, analysing tactics, and observing how teams manage breakdowns or set pieces can improve betting accuracy.

Rugby union operates year-round, with tournaments across both hemispheres—from Premiership Rugby and the United Rugby Championship to Super Rugby and the Rugby Championship—providing consistent betting options.

If you’re new to rugby betting, explore betting tipsters who focus on rugby union to help shape your early picks. More experienced fans may benefit from arbitrage betting software to compare odds and find value across sportsbooks.