Rugby term
Ruck
Definition
A phase of play where at least one player from each team is on their feet and in contact over the ball on the ground.
The ball must be played with feet, not hands.
Related laws
Related terms
BindingBinding means gripping a team-mate or an opponent firmly with the arm so that players stay connected, and it is required at scrums and rucks.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.FlanksThe sides of a ruck, maul, or scrum.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.Hindmost footThe foot nearest a team's own try line of its last player in a maul or scrum, used to set the offside line.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.OffsideBeing in a position where a player is not permitted to play the ball, interfere with play, or advance.