2 teams of 15 players each compete on a field where the aim is to score tries by flattening the ball behind the opposing team's goal line (5 points). The game is played in two 40-minute halves.

Each try earns a conversion, which can earn 2 extra points if the ball arrives between the two posts.

Players advance by passing or carrying the ball, but cannot throw it forward. They can only pass it backwards or kick it.

Players can tackle opponents to stop them, but must do so below the shoulders and without using dangerous gestures. They may recover the ball following a forward pass from the opposing team or during a scrum.

The forwards or "big men ": 8 players (often the largest) are divided into three lines. The forwards play a major role in their team's defensive work, as well as in winning the ball. The remaining 7 players are the backs.

Touch: the forwards of both teams line up facing each other. One team's hooker throws the ball from the edge of the pitch, and his team-mates have to catch it in the air (by jumping), without being countered.

Scrum: the forwards of the 2 teams play against each other. The ball is introduced into the middle of the scrum, and the aim is to push the ball into your own half.

The ruck: a phase of play in which at least two players (an attacker and a defender) fight for possession of the ball in the tackler-tackle zone. They are then said to be rucking the ball.