What Is Not Allowed in Rugby?

Rugby is fast and physical, but the game only stays fun when players follow the rules. Knowing what you can’t do on the field saves you from penalties and keeps everyone safe. Below is a quick guide to the most common illegal actions you’ll see in any match.

High Tackles and Dangerous Play

A tackle that makes contact above the shoulders is a red‑card offense. Referees call it a high tackle because it can injure a player’s head or neck. Even if the ball is in the air, you must bring the tackle down below the neck line.

Another dangerous move is the tip‑tackle, also called a spear tackle. This is when a player lifts an opponent and drops them so they land on their head or upper back. The rule says you must keep the player’s feet on the ground at all times.

Forward passes are not allowed. The ball must travel sideways or backwards. If it goes forward and hits the ground, it’s a knock‑on and the other team gets a scrum. Same thing happens if a player drops the ball forward.

Offside is a big no‑no. You’re offside when you’re in front of the teammate who last played the ball. Being offside means you can’t join the tackle or the ruck until you’re put back onside by a teammate or the referee.

Obstruction and blocking are also illegal. You can’t stand in the way of an opponent who is trying to get the ball. If you block a player’s path without the ball, the referee will award a penalty and the defending team loses possession.

Physical aggression like punching, kicking or head‑butting isn’t tolerated. Any strike to the head or any kick to an opponent leads to a yellow or red card. Even a careless elbow can be called foul play if it endangers another player.

Penalties and Card System

When a referee spots an illegal act, they stop play and award a penalty. The non‑offending team can choose to kick at goal, kick for touch, or run a quick tap. Repeated or serious fouls earn yellow cards (10‑minute sin bin) or red cards (send‑off).

To avoid penalties, keep your eyes on the ball, stay on your feet, and think before you tackle. Practice proper technique in training, listen to the referee’s warnings, and remember that safety comes first. Follow these tips and you’ll play a cleaner, more enjoyable rugby game.

If you get a yellow card, you’ll head to the sin‑bin for ten minutes while your team plays a man down. Use that time to stay warm, stretch, and watch the game so you can jump back in sharp. A red card means you’re out for the rest of the match and may miss the next game, depending on the league’s rules. Coaches usually review video footage after the match to see if any further action is needed. Knowing the consequences helps you think twice before taking risky moves on the field.