Four live scrums – just one pack

Use these four set-ups to work on good technique by isolating players in overloaded situations. Trained in a controlled environment, these live practices will put scrum fundamentals under pressure.

Scrummaging is reactive as well as proactive. The more players can experience “live” scrums, the better able they are to work on their solutions. This session should be done under intense supervision.

After a good body warm-up, work through these four situations. Only allow short pushes. Use the “Crouch, Bind, Set” commands.

1 v 1 CONTROLLED SCRUMS

1. Take it in turns to push forward, then raising and lowering the height

2 v 1 SCRUMS

1. Two players bind together as second rows or loose-head and hooker, resisting the drive of a single player.

3 v 3 SCRUMS

1. Loose-head, hooker and second row versus a tight-head, second row and flanker.
2. Swap the flanks around and the number eight as second row.

4 v 4 SCRUMS

1. Loose-head, hooker, left-hand second row and flanker versus tight-head, right-hand second row, flank and number 8.
2. The number 8 can pack either to the left of the second row or between him and the flanker.

TECHNIQUE

• Retain a square shape (spine in line) even if there’s a gap in front.
• Flat backs by pulling shoulder blades together.
• Toes into the ground.
• Aim to get the knees under the hips.