October 2014

Law 13 – Kick Off and Restarts

The HKRFU requested a clarification relating to Law 13. Drop out must cross the line.

Scenario

Team A have a 22 metre drop out. The ball does not cross the line and lands in the field of play before going into touch, some 8 metres from the 22 metre drop out took place.

What advantage may apply? Can the non-offending team choose to have a line out where the ball went into touch, the option of a scrum or a kick to be retaken?

Clarification of the Designated Members of the Rugby Committee

Law 13.13 (a) applies.

“If the ball does not cross the 22 m line the opposing team has two choices:

• To have another drop out, or
• To have a scrum at the centre of the 22m line. They throw in the ball.”

Advantage only applies if the opponents play the ball before it goes into touch.