Rugby union

Rugby Union is a team sport that was developed from the rules used to play football at Rugby School in England. Two teams, each of 15 players have the task of outscoring the opposing team. Players clutch a prolate spheroid ball in their hands or arms, and may pass it backwards or laterally across the pitch, or kick it in any direction. The opposing players attempt to halt the ball-carrier by tackling him or her with their arms and bodies. When tackled, the ball carrier must release the ball, at which time a contest for possession of the ball commences (either a ruck or a maul).

Teams

International teams

The major international teams (represented on the IRB) are:

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• Argentina (nicknamed The Pumas)
• Australia (nicknamed The Wallabies)
• England
• France (nicknamed Les Bleus)
• Ireland
• Italy (nicknamed The Azzurri)
• New Zealand (nicknamed The All Blacks)
• Scotland
• South Africa (nicknamed The Springboks)
• Wales
• List of international rugby union teams