Rugby League vs. Rugby Union — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 30, 2023
Rugby League has 13 players and emphasizes speed; Rugby Union has 15 players and focuses on possession. Both are rugby variants.
Difference Between Rugby League and Rugby Union
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Rugby League is a sport that consists of 13 players on each side, playing with specific positions and a set of defined rules. Rugby Union, on the other hand, fields 15 players per team, following a different set of rules and traditions.
In Rugby League, the primary objective is to score tries, and teams are given six tackles to try to score. Rugby Union emphasizes retaining possession of the ball, with no tackle limit, making phases of play longer.
Rugby League has a more open style of play, often showcasing speed and agility, with players regularly switching between positions. Rugby Union, due to its structure, often has more set-pieces, such as scrums and lineouts, with specialized roles for players.
The culture and history of Rugby League and Rugby Union have evolved distinctly. Originally, Rugby League became popular in the north of England, while Rugby Union was the choice of the south and the amateur community.
Both Rugby League and Rugby Union have passionate followings worldwide, but Rugby Union tends to be more globally recognized, especially in countries like New Zealand, South Africa, and England. Rugby League has strongholds in Australia, parts of England, and Papua New Guinea.
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Comparison Chart
Player Count
13 players
15 players
Tackles
Limited to six tackles
Unlimited tackles
Gameplay Style
More open, emphasizing speed
More set-pieces, emphasizing possession
Origins
North of England
South of England and amateur circles
Global Popularity
Strong in Australia, parts of England, Papua New Guinea
Wider global recognition
Compare with Definitions
Rugby League
Emphasizes speed and agility.
Rugby League players showcased incredible athleticism.
Rugby Union
Characterized by scrums and lineouts.
Scrum dynamics are crucial in Rugby Union matches.
Rugby League
Originated as a breakaway from Rugby Union.
Historically, the Rugby League was formed due to disagreements in payment.
Rugby Union
Has a broader international presence.
The Rugby Union Six Nations Championship attracts viewers worldwide.
Rugby League
A 13-player variant of rugby.
The Rugby League match was intense from start to finish.
Rugby Union
Historically associated with amateur play.
Rugby Union retained its amateur status for many years.
Rugby League
Known for its six-tackle rule.
The team used their tackles wisely in the Rugby League game.
Rugby Union
Focuses on phases and ball possession.
The team maintained control throughout the Rugby Union game.
Rugby League
Popular in specific regions globally.
The Rugby League World Cup drew fans from all its major playing nations.
Rugby Union
A 15-player variant of rugby.
The Rugby Union World Cup is a highly anticipated event.
Common Curiosities
How many players are on a Rugby Union team?
15 players.
What is the primary difference between Rugby League and Rugby Union?
Rugby League has 13 players with a six-tackle rule, while Rugby Union has 15 players with a focus on possession.
How many players are on a Rugby League team?
13 players.
Which form of rugby, Rugby League or Rugby Union, has a broader international presence?
Rugby Union.
In which rugby type is the play more open, Rugby League or Rugby Union?
Rugby League.
Who organizes the World Cup events for both Rugby League and Rugby Union?
The Rugby League International Federation (RLIF) for Rugby League and World Rugby for Rugby Union.
Is the gameplay the same for Rugby League and Rugby Union?
No, they have different rules, gameplay styles, and strategies.
Which rugby variant, Rugby League or Rugby Union, emphasizes speed?
Rugby League.
Where is Rugby Union more popular globally?
In countries like New Zealand, South Africa, England, and Wales.
What are scrums and lineouts associated with, Rugby League or Rugby Union?
Rugby Union.
Which variant, Rugby League or Rugby Union, has a six-tackle rule?
Rugby League.
Why did Rugby League originate?
As a breakaway from Rugby Union due to disagreements, especially regarding player payments.
Where are the strongholds for Rugby League?
In Australia, parts of England, and Papua New Guinea.
Do both Rugby League and Rugby Union have World Cup tournaments?
Yes, both have their respective World Cup events.
Is the ball the same in Rugby League and Rugby Union?
The balls are similar but can differ slightly in shape and size.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
