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Formed when the ball is on the ground with at least one player from each team on their feet bound over it. Usually follows a tackle. A ruck and a breakdown mean the same thing.

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How it’s identified

  • The ball is on the ground after a tackle.
  • At least one player from each team is on their feet, bound over the ball.
  • Players may only use their feet to move the ball backwards; hands are not allowed.
  • Players must join from behind the hindmost foot.
  • The team that brings the ball into the ruck is the team in possession.