Scrum · 15s · play

928 — Midfield Scrum Switch

9 cuts directly to 12, 12 angles toward the opposing 10/flanker and switches with No. 8, who accelerates through the created seam with 10 drifting outside.

RPS Reviewed · Source-backed rugby play

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Play family

No. 8 Scrum Plays

Starting platform

midfield scrum

Best / situation

Midfield scrum in the attacking half

Objective

Bring No. 8 forward on a switch from 12 to threaten a midfield gap and create space for the next receiver.

How it works

  1. From the midfield scrum, 9 throws a cut pass directly to 12.
  2. 12 angles back toward the opposing 10 and flanker to commit the defensive picture.
  3. 12 switches with No. 8 coming forward from the scrum.
  4. No. 8 accelerates into the gap or toward the next defender.
  5. 10 drifts outside No. 8 as a receiving option while flankers and the wider backs provide support.

Coaching points

  • 12 must threaten the defence before delivering the switch.
  • No. 8 accelerates onto the ball rather than receiving flat-footed.
  • 10 preserves width outside the strike.
  • Back-row support should stay connected to the ball carrier.

Variations

  • A flatter 12 can pop to No. 8 wrapping outside.
  • The same initial picture can finish with an inside pass to a supporting flanker.

Sources & review

RPS creates its own pitch representation and concise coaching explanation from the cited material.