Definition
A scrum is a way to restart play after a minor error, such as a knock-on or a forward pass. Eight players from each team bind together and push against each other while the ball is fed into the middle of the scrum on the ground. The teams then compete for possession, and the team that wins the ball continues play, usually by passing it out to the backs.
Scrum outcomes:
Scrum won: The team that feeds the ball into the scrum retains possession after the scrum
Scrum lost: The team that feeds the ball into the scrum loses possession after the scrum
Scrum reset: The referee stops the scrum and orders it to be formed again because something went wrong, such as players losing their footing, the scrum collapsing, an illegal push, or an incorrect feed.
How to Code
Step 1: Identify that a scrum has occurred.
Use your rugby knowledge and the definition above to recognise when a scrum has occurred.
Step 2: Label the scrum.
Press "1" (Home Team Possession) or "2" (Opposition Possession) > Press "S".
Select the correct scrum outcome (Won, Lost, or Reset) from the prompt.
Be careful here and double-check the definitions above before selecting the outcome.
Important to Remember
Q: What is a scrum?
A: A scrum is a set-piece restart after minor errors (knock-on/forward pass). Eight players bind and contest while the ball is fed in; play continues once possession is secured and played away.
Q: What are scrum outcomes (won/lost/reset)?
A: Scrum won: feeding team retains possession after the scrum. Scrum lost: feeding team loses possession. Scrum reset: referee stops and orders a re-form due to collapse/illegalities/unstable scrum.
Q: If a penalty happens after a scrum, what should I record?
A: Record the scrum outcome (won/lost/reset) first, then record the penalty infringement separately at the referee’s signal time. Both events matter.
Q: Can penalties occur after a scrum?
A: Yes. This is often due to an infringement by a prop (for example, hinging at the scrum). Always still record the scrum outcome (Won, Lost, or Reset). Also record the penalty separately.