In this blog post, we’ll provide an introduction to the rules of Rugby League, its history, equipment and player positions. We will also discuss the difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union.
If you’re new to the world of rugby, it can be easy to get confused about the difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union. However, the two sports are quite different, with different rules, player positions, and scoring systems. If you are interested in Rugby Union visit our blog on Rugby Union here!
History of Rugby League: A Brief Overview
In 1895 Rugby League was born out of a split from Rugby Union, when a group of clubs in Northern England decided to break away and form their own league. The main reason for the split was due to disagreements over player compensation as the working-class players wanted to be paid for their time. Since then, Rugby League has become a popular sport in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, with professional leagues and international competitions.
Equipment Needed to Play Rugby League
To play Rugby League, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment. The most important piece is the ball, which is oval-shaped and made of leather. Rugby League balls are the exact same as Rugby Unoin balls so if you have one, dont buy the other! Here is a super durable, good value ball we recommend!
Other necessary equipment includes a jersey, shorts, socks, boots, and a mouthguard. Headgear is also allowed but not mandatory.
Player Positions in Rugby League
Rugby League is played with 13 players on each team. The positions are divided into forwards and backs. Forwards typically have more size and strength and play closer to the ball, while backs are generally faster and more agile and play further out from the ball. The positions are as follows:
Forwards:
Prop
Hooker
Second-row
Loose forward
Backs:
Fullback
Winger
Centre
Five-eighth
Halfback
Explaining each position’s exact role can get very complicated, very quickly and isnt necessarily important for beginners or those watching a game. If you do want a more in depth explanation check out our take on Rugby Union, where we have explained their roles.
Scoring in Rugby League
In Rugby League, there are a few ways to score points. The aim of every player is to score a try, which is worth 4 points. A try is scored when a player places the ball down over the opposing team’s try line. A conversion kick, worth 2 points, is attempted after a try. Penalty kicks and field goals are also possible ways to score points.
The game begins with a kick-off from the centre of the field, after which both teams compete for possession of the ball. Unlike Rugby Union, there are no lineouts, rucks or mauls in Rugby League. When a player is tackled, the attacking team must surrender the ball and the defending team gets possession of the ball. If the ball carrier does not release the ball, a penalty is awarded to the opposing team.
The game is played in two halves of 40 minutes each, with a short halftime break in between.
The Rules of Rugby League
Six Tackles Rule – After six tackles, the ball must be handed over to the other team. If a team fails to complete a set of six tackles, the ball is turned over to the other team.
Knock-Ons – If a player accidentally drops the ball forward or passes it forward, it is considered a “knock-on,” and the other team is awarded a scrum.
Scrums – A scrum is used to restart the game after a minor rule infringement or when the ball goes out of bounds. The forwards from each team pack together and try to push the other team off the ball. The scrum is formed by eight players from each team, with the two packs coming together to form a “scrum”
Offsides – Players must remain behind the player who has the ball when it is kicked. If a player is caught offside, a penalty is awarded to the opposing team.
Fouls – Dangerous tackles, high tackles, and late tackles are all considered fouls, and can result in a penalty, a yellow card or a red card.
How is the Game Won?
In Rugby League, the team with the most points at the end of the game wins. If the game is tied, extra time may be played to determine a winner. In some competitions, such as the National Rugby League in Australia, a “golden point” rule is used, where the first team to score in extra time wins the game.
What is the Difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union?
The main difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union is the number of players on the field, with Rugby Union played with 15 players per team (compared to League’s 13). Rugby Union also has different rules around scrums, rucks, and mauls, which are not used in Rugby League. Additionally, Rugby Union has a more global presence, with the Rugby World Cup being a major international competition.
Rugby League is a fascinating and fast-paced sport, with its own unique set of rules, player positions, and scoring system that requires a combination of speed, strength, and agility. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a beginner, we hope this guide to the rules of rugby league has given you a good introduction to the world of Rugby League. With its rich history and exciting gameplay, Rugby League is sure to continue to grow in popularity around the world.
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