What is lineout in rugby?

A lineout is a way of restarting play in rugby union when the ball goes out of bounds or when a penalty is awarded. It is contested by two teams of forwards, with the team throwing the ball in having the advantage. When the ball goes out of play, the team that did not touch the ball last gets to throw it back in. The throw-in takes place parallel to the touchline, and the opposing teams line up approximately 5 meters apart. The ball must travel at least 5 meters before it can be caught, and the offside laws apply, meaning that players cannot move from their positions until the ball is caught. The team that wins the lineout can use the ball to set up a maul or move the ball through their backs to attack the opposition.