In rugby league, a team has six tackles in which to advance the ball. On the sixth tackle, teams almost always kick (usually a kick to touch or a grubber) to concede possession as deep in the opposition's half as possible. The six-tackle rule creates the sport's distinctive rhythm of controlled sets of six with a kick to end. If a team drops the ball or is penalised, possession transfers immediately.
Key points
- Six attempts to advance
- Kick on the sixth tackle
- Creates structured, fast-paced sets
- Turnover on drop or penalty
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