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Rugby term

Ball carrier

Definition

The player who has possession of the ball.

Related laws

Law 14Tackle: Ball Carrier Brought to GroundDefines the tackle, and the duties of the tackler, tackled player, and other players arriving at the tackle. All must act quickly to keep the game moving.

Related terms

BreakdownThe breakdown is the contest for the ball straight after a tackle, covering the tackle itself and any ruck that forms over the ball on the ground.GateThe everyday name for how players must join a tackle, ruck or maul: from the direction of their own try line, not from the side.JackalingJackaling is when a player stays on their feet over a tackled opponent and uses their hands to win the ball before a ruck forms.On the groundA player who has any part of their body (other than feet) touching the ground.TackleA tackle happens when the ball carrier is held by one or more opponents and brought to the ground.Tackled playerA ball carrier who has been brought to the ground (at least one knee on the ground) while being held by an opponent.