Rugby

Rugby is a collective term for the team sports of Rugby union and Rugby league, as well as the earlier forms of football from which both games evolved. Canadian football, and to a lesser extent American football were also strongly influenced by these sports.

History

The history of rugby can be traced back to the early 19th century in England. The game is said to have originated at Rugby School, a public school in Rugby, Warwickshire, when William Webb Ellis, a student, picked up the ball during a game of football and ran with it. This is, however, a myth that has been debunked by many historians.

Rugby Union

Rugby union is a form of rugby played with teams of fifteen players. It is known for its complex scrummaging and lineout techniques, as well as the importance of tactical kicking. The Rugby World Cup, which takes place every four years, is the pinnacle of international rugby union competition.

Rugby League

Rugby league is another form of rugby, played with teams of thirteen players. It is known for its fast-paced, hard-hitting action, and is particularly popular in northern England, Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. The Rugby League World Cup is the highest level of international competition in this form of the game.

Rules and Gameplay

Both forms of rugby are played with an oval ball, and the objective is to score more points than the opposition. This can be achieved by scoring tries, kicking goals, or kicking drop goals. The rules of the two games are similar, but there are some key differences, particularly in the way the ball can be moved around the field, and how play is restarted after a tackle.

Influence and Legacy

Rugby has had a significant influence on several other sports, including American football, Canadian football, and Australian rules football. It has also had a cultural impact, particularly in countries where it is a major sport, such as New Zealand, where the All Blacks' haka is a well-known symbol of the country's rugby heritage.