How to Play Scrum-half

Getting the ball from the scrum to the backs in the game of rugby can be crucial to opening up scoring opportunities. The backs are the faster players on the team and run and pass the ball to try and get it over the opponent's try (scoring) line at the other end. The scrum-half is the player who takes the ball from a scrum or ruck -- tangle of players -- and distributes it to the back row, making it a key position in a rugby team.

Instructions

    • 1

      Put the ball into the scrum when a scrum is awarded to your team. Once the two sets of forwards have engaged, feed the ball into the scrum to be competed for by the opposing packs (team forwards) by pushing against each other.

    • 2

      Move behind the scrum or ruck so that you can receive the ball when it becomes available. Shout commands to the back line to ready them to make a play when the ball becomes loose. Also prepare to move around and tackle, should the ball come out on the opposition side.

    • 3

      Pick up the ball when it is distributed by the players in the scrum or ruck. Look up to see your best option.

    • 4

      Pass the ball out to the next man in the back line, or run with it if you see a gap to give your team an advantage. If neither option is available, kick the ball to touch or forward to gain ground.

    • 5

      Run to be first to any ruck or maul that develops during play. Do the same during line outs -- restart when the ball goes out of play -- and scrums. As scrum-half you are responsible for distributing the ball as quickly as possible to the backs and linking the two parts of the team.