What's the secret behind the perfect scrum?
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The primal scrum
To an outsider the scrum is one thing that defines rugby union: a primal battle between two packs of powerful forwards combining strength and technique.
But this integral part of the game has now become a major area of concern at the top level of the game.
With repeated collapses, resets and penalties, what should be a compelling set-piece used to restart a match can become a blight on the game. So has the time come to finally fix the scrum?
No messing
Internationally acclaimed rugby union referee Nigel Owens is renowned for his no-nonsense approach. He says: "The perfect scrum is one that works, where the set-up is safe and possession is either won or lost without sanction."
Nigel Owens reveals what he looks for during the all-important 'crouch, bind, set' opening sequence. "Player safety is paramount and if the procedure is followed correctly, then there shouldn’t be a problem," he says.
Crouch, bind, set
Click or tap on the hand and drag the arrow across to see how Nigel Owens commands an Ireland v Italy Six Nations scrum.
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What's gone wrong with the scrum?
Former England and Lions hooker Brian Moore says the scrum should be a question of technical skill rather than brute force. For Moore the cure is simple: forwards need to leave their egos in the dressing room and focus on a legal shove.
Brian Moore demonstrates the simplicity of hooking. In 2013 World Rugby introduced scrum law changes, forcing hookers to rediscover this forgotten art. Clip from Saving The Scrum, (BBC Wales 2013).
Dark arts and keeping positive
Refereeing rugby union at elite international level isn’t a job for the meek, and overseeing the scrum can be a daunting challenge, even for one of the greatest officals in the world.
Alarming increase in scrum collapses
There were 63 collapses for every 100 scrums in the 2015 Six Nations tournament, with 49% of scrums ending in a penalty or free kick. In the first Rugby World Cup in 1987, meanwhile, there were just 12 collapses and 4% of scrums ending in a penalty or free kick.
Zero tolerance
Nigel Owens insists that scrum laws on illegalities – the 'dark arts' – must be enforced with zero tolerance. "To fulfil its function the scrum needs a positive approach from players and coaches, and a strong referee who can deal with any negativity," he says. "If everyone buys into this process then there is no reason why the scrum cannot continue to be an integral and fascinating part of the game."
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Who do you think has the biggest responsibility to fix the scrum?
Forwards
The most physically intimidating members of the pack responsible for gaining and retaining possession of the ball.
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Forwards
Players
Players should wait for the ball to enter the scrum before competing.
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Coaches
Trainer and leader
Coaches must encourage players to have a positive approach in the scrum.
Referees
The scrum should be a carefully synchronised procedure verbally co-ordinated by the referee.
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Referees
Ensures fair play according to the rules
Overseeing the scrum requires a no-nonsense approach. Referees must deal with any negativity and get better at identifying who is to blame for a collapse.
World Rugby
The key governing body of Rugby Union responsible for regulating and developing the game.
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World Rugby
Governing body
It’s up to the game’s law-makers to tinker with the game to get the scrum fixed.
