What is a 7-1 Split in Rugby? Learn More Interesting Facts

Learn about the '7-1 Split' in rugby and why it's making waves in the sport. Explore this unique strategy and its impact.

by Mathelene

Updated Oct 26, 2023

What is a 7-1 Split in Rugby? Learn More Interesting Facts
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What is a 7-1 Split in Rugby?

A '7-1 split' in rugby is when a team chooses seven big and strong players called forwards and only one player skilled in scoring is called a back-to-be substitute on their bench. South Africa recently used this strategy in a big game. It's a unique tactic, and it's getting attention because it's never been used in the Rugby World Cup before.

The idea behind this tactic is to have more powerful players available as substitutes, giving the team an advantage in scrums, rucks, and mauls. However, it's also a controversial move because some people worry it might not be safe, and other teams might copy it, which could lead to more injuries in the game. So, it's a big topic of discussion in rugby right now.

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Rugby Union

Rugby is a team sport that began in the 19th century at Rugby School. It's all about running with an oval-shaped ball in hand. Normally, two teams, each with 15 players, play on a rectangular field. The field has H-shaped goalposts at both ends. Lots of people worldwide, no matter their age, size, or gender, enjoy playing rugby. In 2023, over 10 million people played it, and about 8.4 million were registered players.

The group in charge of rugby is called World Rugby, and they've been doing it since 1886. They have 116 full members and 18 associate members. Rugby started in the UK but quickly spread to other countries like Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, and France. It's most popular in Great Britain, Ireland, France, and other places.

There are big international competitions, like the Rugby World Cup every four years, the Six Nations Championship, and The Rugby Championship. Teams also compete in their own countries and regions, like the Premiership in England, the Top 14 in France, and others. There are even international club competitions for teams from different countries.

Rugby Union Gameplay

Rugby union is a sport with two teams, each having 15 players. The aim is to score more points than the other team by either getting tries or kicking goals during 80 minutes of play. The game begins with one team kicking the ball from the middle of the field towards the other team.

You can move the ball forward by running with it or kicking it. But when passing, you can only throw the ball sideways or backward. The other team can stop you by tackling you, but only the player with the ball can be tackled. Once a tackle is done, both teams can try to get the ball.

The game goes on until a try is scored, the ball goes out of bounds, or there's a rule violation. After a team scores, the other team starts the game with a kick from the middle. The team with the most points when the game ends wins.

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What is a 7-1 Split in Rugby? FAQs

1.  What is a '7-1 Split' in rugby?

A '7-1 Split' in rugby is a strategy where a team has seven powerful forwards and only one skilled back among their substitutes. This tactic is designed to boost a team's strength in the forward pack.

2. Has the '7-1 Split' been used before?

This tactic has been used in Test match rugby, but South Africa was the first to apply it in a Rugby World Cup match. They previously used a '6-2 Split' in the 2019 World Cup.

3. Why is the '7-1 Split' controversial?

The controversy stems from concerns about its impact on player safety and the possibility of lower-level teams copying it, potentially leading to more injuries in the game.

4. What is rugby union?

Rugby union is a team sport with 15 players on each side. The goal is to score points by getting tries or kicking goals within 80 minutes of play.

5. How does a rugby game start?

A rugby game starts with one team drop-kicking the ball from the halfway line toward the opposition.