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Scrum half approach to the ruck

I'm a new player trying to learn to play Scrum half. I have a general idea of how the game works having played back positions a few times. However, I'm confused about one thing (and this might be dumb but bear with me). The thing is, I'm pretty quick. I can usually make it to a ruck before the forwards have fully formed it. When this happens I don't really have a good sense of where to stand in order ot have good access to the ball but also avoid blocking other forwards coming in to ruck. Usually I've already surveyed the field (to my newbie abilities anyway) and made a decision as to what I want to do with the ball, yelled the call on my way to the ruck, etc, so that puts me in a mindset that I REALLY want to be close to the ball so I can make it happen. Should I just keep my distance instead until the ruck is fully formed? Where specifically should I be standing and how quickly should I get there? Thanks!

Rugby CoachCoach

1 answer

ANSWERS

Simon JonesCoach, England

PapaD

My first thought is you need to get your fellow players working on their speed around the pitch!

The other thing to consider is that once the set piece (scrum lineout etc) is over players can forget the numbers on their back - and if they are nearest to the tackle then they must get in to secure the ball whoever they are.

If you are coming from a set piece to a breakdown situation the closest players to the breakdown should be the nearest backs - they should get in to either secure the ball at a maul or clear the opposition from a ruck situation. Leaving the ball for you as you arrive.

I hope this helps

Simon