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scrum

sports
Also known as: scrummage

Quick Summary

A scrum is a play in rugby where forwards from each team come together in a tight formation to gain possession of the ball. It's a fundamental part of the game, particularly in rugby union, where it involves a specific arrangement of players.12

In rugby union, a scrum typically consists of eight forwards: two props, a hooker, two locks, two flankers (or wing forwards), and a number eight. The ball is fed into the scrum, and the forwards use their feet to try and gain control of it, often passing it to the back line to continue play.32

While the term "scrum" can also refer to a disorderly struggle or a crowd in general English, its primary meaning in sports is this specific rugby formation.1

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