Normal pass

The normal pass is an essential part of rugby. It is used along with other types of pass for moving the ball around the field searching for weakness in defence.

Good rugby starts with the basics

If you are new to rugby or this site, this is especially for you.

You enjoy the game much more and you are confident when you have really good rugby handling skills and you are comfortable with your grasp of rugby passing basics..

Now the pass. This pass is used frequently in rugby.

It is useful in a huge range of situations during the normal course of a game and used by both forwards and backs.

How to make a basic, normal pass in rugby

This is a two handed pass.

Hold the ball in the "cage grip", see rugby handlingfor details

Normal pass, start

Normal pass, finish

You usually turn your body towards the target.

This improves your aim and helps protect your softer body parts from tacklers.

Aim to have a high arm action when passing.

Presenting as much boney material to the would-be-tackler helps to deter them from clattering into you.

A high, wide lift also gives you more power for a longer pass.

Basic passing action

You perform the pass by drawing your arms to one side of your body. You then swing your arms across in front of your body and release the ball so it travels in the direction of the target.

I also turn one leg towards the target (the leg nearest the target). This gives you added stability, balance and more power.

What you do with your fingers makes a difference.

Experiment. You can make the ball travel point first, or upright.

To make the ball travel upright

If you hold the ball upright and flick it with your fingers as you release it, you can make it travel upright. It will be easier to catch, even one handed, but may not travel as far and/or as fast as when passed point first.

When you have a good arm action it can also be useful in convincing opponents you are about to pass. Then take advantage by turning it into a dummy pass or perhaps a chip and chase kick.

Basic pass summary

The longer your intended pass the more important it is you have upper body strength, general co-ordination and good technique.

Some points to remember for the normal or basic rugby pass

• short to medium pass
• suitable for all players
• pass in plenty of time

• look at and think about your target
• follow through with arms and fingers
• if your intended receiver is moving, your target is the space somewhere out in front of them

Also very important - you want the right tool for the job. Have a complete toolbox of rugby passes when you follow the link below. Most important of all, be able to sidestep when you need to.