Phases
Why the Ruck Forms After a Tackle
Why the ruck forms after a tackle: learn who may contest the ball, when hands must stay out and how to spot the next…
From the journal
All articles
Explore rugby union through its laws, positions, phases and tactical choices. Each piece starts with a question worth keeping in mind as the match unfolds.
Positions
Scrum-Half or Fly-Half: Two Different Jobs in the Attack
Scrum-half or fly-half: see who links the breakdown, who shapes the next attack and how to judge each player’s choices…
Matchcraft
From Lineout to Launch: The Throw-In as a Set Piece
Understand the rugby lineout throw-in as a planned restart, read the catch and support, and see how teams turn clean…
Laws
The Offside Myth: Standing Behind the Ball Is Not the Whole Story
Rugby offside depends on the phase and your team-mates, not just the ball. Learn which line applies and how to judge a…
Tactics
Reading a Wide Attack: Where the Extra Player Comes From
Read a wide rugby attack by tracking players moving away from the ball, then judge whether passing and defender…
Our point of view
The game is clearer when you know what to watch.
Rugby has plenty happening away from the ball. We look at the rules, roles and decisions that make those quieter moments easier to read.