Scrums are one of the most iconic and essential aspects of rugby, but not every form of the sport features them in the same way. The two main rugby codes—rugby union and rugby league—both use scrums, but their structure, frequency, and importance within the game differ significantly.
If you’ve ever wondered which rugby has scrums, how they work, and why they exist, this article will break it all down for you.
Understanding Scrums in Rugby
A scrum is a structured restart in rugby that occurs after a minor infringement, such as a forward pass or a knock-on. The purpose of a scrum is to contest possession of the ball between the two opposing teams in a controlled environment.
While both rugby union and rugby league have scrums, the way they are used and the level of contestation varies greatly. Let’s explore how each code incorporates scrums into its gameplay.
Scrums in Rugby Union
1. Why Are Scrums Important in Rugby Union?
Scrums are a fundamental part of rugby union, playing a significant role in the battle for possession. In union, a scrum consists of eight forwards from each team who pack together and engage in a controlled push against the opposing team. The team awarded the scrum has the advantage of putting the ball in, but they must still work hard to win clean possession.
2. How Does a Rugby Union Scrum Work?
- Each team forms a pack of eight forwards, divided into three rows:
- Front row: Two props and a hooker
- Second row: Two locks
- Back row: Two flankers and a No. 8
- The scrum-half feeds the ball into the tunnel between the two packs.
- The hookers try to “hook” the ball backward using their feet.
- The team that wins the ball either passes it out to the backs or attempts a forward drive.
3. When Are Scrums Used in Rugby Union?
Scrums in rugby union occur after:
- A knock-on (when a player accidentally drops the ball forward).
- A forward pass.
- An unplayable ruck or maul.
- Certain types of penalties, if a team opts for a scrum instead of a lineout.
4. The Significance of Scrums in Rugby Union
Scrums in rugby union are highly competitive and require immense strength, technique, and teamwork. A strong scrum can dominate the opposition, win penalties, and provide an attacking platform.
Some of the best teams in the world, such as the All Blacks, England, and South Africa, are known for their powerful scrums, often using them to wear down their opponents over the course of a match.
Scrums in Rugby League
1. How Do Scrums Work in Rugby League?
Unlike rugby union, scrums in rugby league are far less contested and mainly serve as a means of restarting play quickly. A rugby league scrum consists of six players from each team instead of eight, making it smaller and less physically demanding.
- The forwards bind together in a 3-2-1 formation.
- The scrum-half feeds the ball into the middle, but unlike in rugby union, the contest is minimal.
- The team feeding the ball almost always wins possession.
2. When Are Scrums Used in Rugby League?
Scrums in rugby league are used after:
- A forward pass.
- A knock-on.
- The ball is kicked or carried out of play (in certain circumstances).
Since rugby league is a faster-paced game, scrums serve as a quick reset rather than a true contest for possession.
3. Why Are Scrums Less Important in Rugby League?
Unlike in rugby union, rugby league has gradually reduced the significance of scrums over time. The emphasis in league is on continuous play, quick ball movement, and structured defensive lines, making the traditional scrum less relevant to the game.
Some rugby league fans have even called for scrums to be removed entirely, arguing that they no longer serve their original purpose.
Comparing Scrums: Rugby Union vs. Rugby League
| Feature | Rugby Union | Rugby League |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Players | 8 per team | 6 per team |
| Contest for Possession | Strong and competitive | Minimal contest |
| Importance | Critical for set-pieces and tactical play | Primarily a restart mechanism |
| Frequency | Occurs multiple times per game | Less frequent |
| Formation | 3-4-1 structure | 3-2-1 structure |
| Risk of Penalties | High (scrums can result in penalties) | Low (scrums rarely result in penalties) |
Do Other Forms of Rugby Have Scrums?
1. Rugby Sevens
Yes, but only with three forwards per team. Scrums in rugby sevens are much quicker and involve less contestation than in the traditional 15-a-side game.
2. Touch Rugby & Tag Rugby
No, these versions of rugby do not feature scrums. Instead, the game is restarted with a tap or roll-ball.
3. Wheelchair Rugby
Wheelchair rugby has no scrums, as the game relies on a different set of rules to maintain fairness and flow.
Should Rugby League Remove Scrums?
In recent years, some experts and fans have debated whether rugby league should completely remove scrums. Since the contest is minimal, some argue that scrums no longer serve a meaningful role.
However, others believe scrums still provide an important structure to the game by creating space for the attacking team and giving players a brief rest between intense periods of play.
External High Authority Links
- Find out about scrum techniques in rugby union
- Read how rugby league scrums have evolved
- Check out the differences between rugby union and league
Call to Action
Which do you prefer—the powerful, contested scrums of rugby union or the quick reset scrums in rugby league? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to share this article with fellow rugby fans and subscribe for more in-depth sports analysis.
See Also: Do Rugby Union Players Get Paid?
