Last updated: 3 August 2026
Reviewed by Jordan Makin, FA Level 2 Football Coach
The scrum is one of rugby union’s defining set pieces. Eight forwards from each team bind together and push against the opposing pack, with the scrum-half feeding the ball into the channel between them. The hooker “hooks” the ball back to their team. Dominance at scrum time creates pressure and penalties. Scrums are re-set when the ball doesn’t emerge cleanly or a side collapses. There are no contested scrums in rugby league.
Key points
- Eight forwards bind and contest the ball
- Hooker strikes for possession
- Dominant scrum wins penalties
- No scrums in rugby league
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