Rugby is a team sport that originated in England in the 19th century. It is played with an oval-shaped ball on a rectangular field, typically known as a pitch, that has goalposts at each end. The game involves two teams, each aiming to score points by carrying the ball over the opponent’s goal line and grounding it (a try), kicking the ball through the goalposts (a conversion or penalty kick), or by scoring a drop goal.
Rugby is characterized by its physical nature, combining elements of running, passing, and strategic teamwork. There are two main types of rugby: Rugby Union and Rugby League, which differ in rules, team size, and gameplay. Rugby Union is played with 15 players per side, while Rugby League has 13 players per team.
The sport emphasizes both skill and physicality, requiring players to engage in tackling, scrummaging, and strategic positioning. Rugby is known for its strong community and sporting culture, with many countries participating in international competitions such as the Rugby World Cup. The sport promotes values like respect, teamwork, and sportsmanship among players and fans alike.