What is a scrum in rugby?

Scrum is a major part of rugby, and it is a method used to restart the game after certain minor infractions or stoppages. It involves the opposing teams coming together and forming a formation to contest the ball. Here are some key points about scrums in rugby:

1. Purpose: The scrum's primary purpose is to restart play quickly and fairly when the ball goes out of play, provided that certain rules have been broken, such as a forward pass, knock-on (dropping the ball forward), or an accidental offside.

2. Formation: The scrum involves eight players from each team, known as the forward pack. These players interlock in a specific formation, binding tightly together with their teammates in a pushing position.

3. Positions: Within the scrum, each team has specific positions and roles. The two front row players are known as props, and their primary objective is to provide stability and support to the scrum. The hooker's primary role is to hook the ball back using their foot once it enters the scrum. The remaining players in the scrum are known as second rows and flankers, providing support and exerting force on the opposing team.

4. Engagement: Before the scrum begins, the referee gives the instruction of "crouch, bind, set." The players crouch down and bind onto their teammates, forming a strong shoulder-to-shoulder connection. The final command, "set," signals the players to position themselves and prepares for the actual engagement.

5. Engagement Process: Once the "set" command is given, the two front rows from opposing teams come together and engage by binding onto each other's jerseys. They use their arms to grip their opponents' jerseys, seeking leverage to control and manipulate the scrum.

6. Rules: The scrum must be stable and maintain a continuous forward motion unless the scrum collapses or the ball is released. Certain rules govern scrums, such as not striking or making contact with opponents with their hands or arms. The scrum should not be deliberately wheeled or moved sideways but remain parallel to the touchlines.

7. Outcome: The team that did not commit the infringement leading to the scrum is awarded the put-in or feeding the ball into the scrum. This allows them an opportunity to regain possession of the ball from the scrum.

Scrummaging in rugby requires strength, technique, and coordination from the players involved. It is a dynamic aspect of the game that tests the physicality and skill of the forward pack of both teams.