The Players

The player names, positions and numbers worn on shirts are defined by the International Rugby Board (IRB).

The players have the following position names and numbers:

The players are divided into 'forwards' and 'backs'.

The 'forward unit' consists of the:
front row: numbers 1,2 & 3
second row: numbers 4 & 5
back row: numbers 6, 7 & 8

The 'back unit' consists of the:
half backs : numbers 9 & 10
three-quater backs: numbers 11, 12, 13 & 14
full back: number 15

Simple Guide to Rugby

Rugby is a continuous game whereby two teams carry, pass, kick and ground the ball in order to score as many points as possible, with the team scoring the greater number of points being the winner.

In Senior rugby (and under 19s), 15 people play at a time per side, each of which have specific duties as a player. Players are usually talked about in respect to two categories. Members of the first group are called the forwards, or the pack, and consist of the first eight players. Members of the second group are called the backs, and consist of the remaining players, numbered 9 to fifteen.

If a player is tackled to the ground they must release the ball, which usually results in a ruck. If a player is held while standing, a maul will usually be formed. The purpose of the ruck or maul is so that the game can continue without any stoppage in play.

The line-out and scrum are two key distinguishing factors to the game of Rugby Union. A scrum occurs when there is an accidental infringement and a line-out occurs when the ball goes out of bounds. Both of these are methods of restarting the game.

A try is scored when a player places the ball in the opposition's in-goal area. It is counted as 5 points and can be converted to an additional 2 points with a successful place kick or drop kick. Points may also be awarded from a drop kick in general play and a penalty kick. Both are worth 3 points.