Common Rugby Ball Questions
We’re going to answer some of the most common rugby ball questions that people ask. If you have any of your own questions, send us a message in chat, email or socials and we’ll be happy to help answer your burning rugby ball questions. Let’s start with the basics…
What is a Rugby Ball?
A rugby ball is an oval-shaped ball used in the sport of rugby. The ball is typically about 28 cm (11 inches) long and about 58 cm (23 inches) in circumference at its widest point. It is used in both rugby union and rugby league, with slightly different dimensions and weight for each version of the game.
What is the ball called in Rugby?
In rugby, the ball is simply called a rugby ball, no fancy names required. Oval in shape and is made of rubber or synthetic materials . It is slightly larger and heavier than an American football, and is mainly carried, kicked, and passed during a game. The rugby ball is the most important part of the game and is used to score points by carrying it over the opponent's goal line or by kicking it through the opponent's goalposts.
Why is a Rugby Ball oval?
The rugby ball is oval in shape because it was originally made from a pig's bladder, which was also oval in shape. The ball is typically about 28 cm (11 inches) long and about 58 cm (23 inches) in circumference at its widest point. It is used in both rugby union and rugby league, with slightly different dimensions and weight for each version of the game.
How is a Rugby Ball made?
Rugby balls are made using a variety of techniques and materials, mostly using synthetic materials such as rubber and polyurethane or a blend of both. The use of synthetic materials is allowed in the World Rugby lawbook.
Here is a general overview of the process of making a rugby ball:
Cutting materials into panels: Usually cut from large sheets using a template.
Assemble panels: Panels are sewn together using a special machine (or hand-sewn) with heavy-duty thread. The ball is typically made up of four equal panels.
Shape the ball: Once the panels are sewn together, the ball is shaped by hand to give it its oval shape.
Bladder and valve: A rubber bladder is inserted into the ball and a valve is attached to allow air to be pumped into the ball. Check out what the inside of a rugby ball looks like right here.
Cover the ball: The ball is then covered with a layer of fabric, which can be made of leather, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. The cover is sewn onto the ball using a special machine.
Testing and quality control: The finished ball is then tested to ensure that it meets the necessary size, weight, and performance standards.
Rugby balls are typically made by skilled craftspeople in specialist factories. The process can be labour-intensive and time-consuming, but the end result is a high-quality ball that is well-suited for the demands of the game of rugby.
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