A ruck is a phase of play in rugby where one or more players from each team, who are on their feet, are in physical contact, close around the ball on the ground. A ruck is formed when at least one player from each team is "engaged" in contact over the ball, and the referee determines when the engagement is formed, usually by saying "ruck formed". A ruck often follows a tackle, and players attempt to arrive at the ruck first, drive forward, and bind onto the opposition. Once a ruck is formed, the defenders cannot use their hands, making it easier for the attacking team to retain possession. The defenders try to slow the ball from coming out of the ruck, which allows their team more time to organize their defense. This may not be done by using their hands, lying over the ball, or going to ground deliberately. Some key points for players in a ruck include:
- The ball carrier should present the ball quickly, with both hands, as far away from the opposition as possible.
- Players joining the ruck do so from behind the feet of the hindmost player and by binding onto a teammate.
- Players are on their feet when joining the ruck and remain on their feet until the ruck has ended.
- Players keep their shoulders above their hips.
It is important to note that players must not handle the ball in the ruck and must use their feet to move the ball or drive over it so that it emerges at the team’s hindmost foot, at which point it can be picked up.
