Rugby is a sport that blends physical prowess, strategy, and skill. Among its many facets, kicking is a crucial aspect that adds a strategic dimension to the game. Whether you’re new to rugby or a seasoned fan looking to deepen your understanding, this article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about kicking in rugby. We’ll explore the various types of kicks, when to use them, kicking techniques, and the rules governing kicks.
Types of Kicks in Rugby
Kicking in rugby is a versatile skill with different types of kicks that serve various purposes during a match. Understanding the nuances of these kicks is vital for players and fans alike.
- Punt Kick: The punt kick is a high, distance-oriented kick used to clear the ball from the defensive zone or gain territory. It involves dropping the ball and kicking it as it descends. Punt kicks are often used when a team is deep in their own territory or needs to relieve pressure.
- Grubber Kick: A grubber kick is a low, bouncing kick that travels close to the ground. This kick is employed to catch the opposing team’s defenders off-guard, making it challenging for them to secure possession. It can be a useful attacking weapon when executed well.
- Place Kick: Place kicks are used for goal attempts, either as conversions (after scoring a try) or penalty kicks (following an opponent’s infringement). The ball is placed on a kicking tee, and the player aims to kick it through the uprights.
- Drop Kick: A drop kick is a dynamic skill that involves dropping the ball and kicking it as it bounces off the ground. Drop kicks are rarely seen in modern rugby but were historically used to score field goals or conversions before kicking tees became standard.
- Box Kick: The box kick is a tactical kick used by scrum-halves or fly-halves to put pressure on the opposition. It’s executed by kicking the ball high into the air with a slight forward trajectory, allowing the chasing players to contest and hopefully regain possession.
- Cross-Kick: Also known as a “kick pass,” the cross-kick is a diagonal kick across the field. This type of kick is often used to exploit gaps in the opposition’s defensive line or to provide a teammate with an accurate pass.
When to Use Different Kicks
Understanding when to use specific kicks is a fundamental aspect of rugby strategy. Here’s a breakdown of situations where different types of kicks come into play:
- Clearance Kicks: Punt kicks are typically used in defensive scenarios, such as when a team is deep in their own territory, under pressure, or when they need to gain ground quickly. The objective is to kick the ball deep into the opposition’s territory.
- Attacking Kicks: Grubber kicks, cross-kicks, and well-placed box kicks are often used to exploit the opposition’s defensive line and create scoring opportunities. These kicks aim to put the ball into space where a teammate can chase, gather, and score.
- Goal Kicks: Place kicks are used for goal attempts. They are taken after a try (conversion) or when a team is awarded a penalty. The goal is to accurately kick the ball between the uprights to earn points.
- Box Kicks: Box kicks are used to apply pressure on the opposition. The high trajectory of the kick allows chasing players to contest the catch, potentially leading to turnovers or field position gains.
- Drop Kicks: Drop kicks are rare and are mainly used for field goals or drop goals, which are worth three points in some rugby formats. A successful drop kick can change the outcome of a close match.
Kicking Techniques
Kicking in rugby requires a combination of precision, power, and skill. Let’s explore the key elements of effective kicking techniques:
- Foot Placement: Proper foot placement is essential. The non-kicking foot should be planted next to the ball, with the toe pointing toward the target. The kicking foot should strike the ball cleanly and consistently.
- Ball Contact: The sweet spot for kicking is the center of the ball. This allows for optimal control and accuracy. The instep, or the top of the foot, is typically used to make contact.
- Follow-Through: A good follow-through is crucial for both distance and accuracy. The kicking leg should follow through in the direction of the target to ensure a clean strike.
- Body Position: Maintaining balance is important. The body should lean slightly forward and over the ball to maintain control during the kick.
- Timing: Timing is key, especially for kicks that involve a bounce or a moving target. Kicking the ball at the right moment ensures it travels where intended.
- Mental Focus: Kicking also requires mental composure. Kicking under pressure, such as a critical penalty kick, demands strong concentration and confidence.
Kicking Rules and Regulations
Understanding the rules and regulations regarding kicking is essential for both players and fans:
- Offside: Players cannot be offside when a teammate kicks the ball. They must not advance beyond the kicker until they are put onside, typically by the kicker running ahead of them.
- Out on the Full: If a player kicks the ball directly into touch from within their own 22-meter line, the opposition is awarded a lineout from where the ball was kicked.
- Knock-On: If a player accidentally knocks the ball forward while attempting to kick it, it’s considered a knock-on, resulting in a scrum for the opposing team.
- Obstruction: Players must not obstruct or charge opponents illegally when they are chasing a kicked ball.
- Fair Catch: In some situations, players are allowed to call a “mark” when catching a kick cleanly from the opposition. This grants the catching player a free kick at the location of the catch.
Conclusion
Kicking is a dynamic and multifaceted aspect of rugby that significantly impacts the flow and outcome of the game. Whether it’s a perfectly executed conversion, a precision cross-kick to set up a try, or a booming punt to clear pressure, the art of kicking requires a combination of skill, technique, and tactical awareness. As you continue to explore the world of rugby, understanding the different types of kicks, when to use them, the technical aspects, and the rules governing kicks will enhance your appreciation of this fascinating sport. So, keep your eyes on the pitch and be ready to cheer when the next kick changes the course of the match.
