James Wilson 
Rugby is a complex and dynamic sport that combines elements of strength, speed, strategy, and finesse. One of the fundamental aspects of the game is ball handling, and kicking is a crucial part of it. However, the question of whether you can kick the ball anytime in rugby is not as straightforward as it may seem. The rules and strategies governing kicking are multifaceted and depend on various factors within the context of the game.
The Different Types of Kicks
The Up-and-Under: This kick is used to gain territory and put pressure on the opposing team. The player kicks the ball high into the air, usually towards the opponents’ half of the field. The aim is to force the opponents to make a mistake while trying to catch the ball or to give the kicking team’s chasers time to reach the ball carrier and make a tackle. For example, in a close game where field position is crucial, a well-executed up-and-under can change the momentum. If the opponents fumble the catch, the kicking team can regain possession and launch an attack.
The Grubber Kick: A grubber kick is a low, bouncing kick that is designed to roll along the ground. It is often used to beat the first line of defense. The ball is kicked with a downward trajectory, causing it to bounce unpredictably. This can catch the defenders off guard as they have to adjust their running lines to deal with the bouncing ball. In a situation where the attacking team is facing a strong defensive line, a grubber kick can create gaps for the attackers to exploit. The chasing players can then pounce on the loose ball and continue the attack.
The Drop Kick: The drop kick is a more technical kick where the player drops the ball and kicks it just as it hits the ground. It is used for scoring points, both conversions after a try and penalty kicks. In a penalty situation, a player with a good drop kicking technique can accurately place the ball between the posts and earn valuable points for the team. For a conversion, the kicker has to judge the distance and angle accurately to ensure the ball goes over the crossbar.
When Kicking is Allowed
In Open Play: During normal open play, a player can choose to kick the ball at any time as a tactical option. This could be to relieve pressure, gain territory, or set up an attacking opportunity. For instance, if a team is under heavy defensive pressure near their own try line, a long kick downfield can give them some breathing space and force the opponents to start their attack from further back. However, the player must ensure that the kick is legal, meaning it is not a forward pass (as a kick that goes forward from the point of the kick is considered a forward pass and a penalty offense).
From Set Pieces: In set pieces such as scrums and lineouts, kicking can also be a viable option. After a successful scrum, the scrum-half may choose to kick the ball if they see an opportunity to gain ground or catch the opposition off guard. Similarly, from a lineout, the ball can be passed to a player who then kicks it. For example, if a team wins a lineout near the opponents’ 22-meter line, they might execute a well-planned move that ends with a kick over the defense to set up a scoring chance.
Restrictions and Penalties Related to Kicking
The Forward Pass Rule: As mentioned earlier, if a kick is deemed to have gone forward from the point where the player kicked it, it is a forward pass and results in a penalty to the opposing team. This rule is in place to ensure fairness and prevent teams from gaining an unfair advantage by illegally advancing the ball. For example, if a player tries to kick the ball to a teammate who is further ahead but the kick travels forward in the air, the referee will award a penalty to the other team.
Kicking the Ball Out on the Full: If a player kicks the ball directly into touch (out of bounds) without it bouncing in the field of play first, it usually results in a lineout to the opposing team. This is to encourage teams to keep the ball in play and make more strategic decisions rather than simply kicking the ball out. However, there are some exceptions, such as when a team is trying to clear their lines from deep within their own territory and a kick out on the full is a more pragmatic option than risking a turnover.
Strategic Considerations for Kicking
Field Position: Kicking is often used to gain a better field position. A team may choose to kick the ball deep into the opponents’ territory to force them to start their attack from a disadvantageous position. For example, if a team is leading in a game and wants to run down the clock, they may repeatedly kick the ball into the opponents’ half, making it difficult for the opponents to mount a quick and effective attack.
Attacking vs. Defensive Kicks: There is a difference between kicking to attack and kicking to defend. An attacking kick is designed to create opportunities for the kicking team to regain possession and score. A defensive kick, on the other hand, is mainly to relieve pressure and force the opponents to make mistakes. For instance, a team that is on the defensive may use a long clearance kick to get the ball away from their try line, while an attacking team might use a grubber kick to break through the defense and set up a try-scoring opportunity.
Kicking Skills and Training
Technique: Good kicking technique is essential. This includes proper foot placement, body position, and follow-through. For a drop kick, the player needs to have a consistent drop height and timing of the kick. For a grubber kick, the angle and power of the kick need to be mastered. Training drills can focus on improving these aspects, such as practicing drop kicks from different distances and angles.
Kicking Under Pressure: Players also need to be able to kick under pressure. In a game situation, there may be opponents closing in, and the player has to make a quick and accurate decision. Training can involve simulated game scenarios where players have to kick while being tackled or rushed. This helps them develop the ability to stay calm and execute the kick effectively.
The Role of the Kicker in the Team
The Kicker as a Game Changer: The kicker can often be a key player in a rugby team. Their ability to score points from penalties and conversions can be decisive in a close game. A reliable kicker gives the team an added dimension in their attacking and defensive strategies. For example, a team with a great kicker may be more confident in taking risks in attack, knowing that they have a good chance of converting tries.
Communication and Teamwork: The kicker also needs to communicate well with the rest of the team. They need to know the team’s game plan and be able to adapt their kicking according to the situation. For instance, the fly-half, who is often the main kicker, has to work closely with the scrum-half and the forwards to decide when to kick and what type of kick to use.
Conclusion
While you can kick the ball in rugby in many situations, it is not without its rules, restrictions, and strategic considerations. The different types of kicks, when they are allowed, the associated penalties, and the strategic and skill aspects all play a crucial role in determining how and when a player should kick the ball. Understanding these elements is essential for both players and fans alike to fully appreciate the nuances of this exciting sport. Whether it’s a last-minute penalty kick to win the game or a well-placed grubber kick to set up a try, kicking in rugby is a vital and fascinating aspect of the game that requires both technical proficiency and strategic acumen.
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