The lineout is used to restart play after the ball goes into touch. In most cases, the lineout takes place where the ball crossed the touchline. However, if the ball is kicked directly into touch from outside the kicker's own 22-metre area (and the kick is not from a penalty), the lineout is taken in line with where the ball was kicked.

At every lineout, both teams have the opportunity to contest possession. While the throwing team usually has the advantage, winning a lineout requires teamwork, timing, communication, and precision.

The team awarded the throw decides how many players will participate in the lineout, with anywhere from two to seven players joining from each side. The remaining players position themselves ready for the next phase of play.

How a Lineout Works

The hooker is usually responsible for throwing the ball into the lineout. The aim is to deliver an accurate throw to one of the team's jumpers while the opposition attempts to compete for possession.

The main players involved are:

• Hooker – Throws the ball into the lineout
• Jumpers – Usually the locks and one or two loose forwards, who leap to catch or tap the ball
• Lifters – Teammates who lift the jumper safely into the air
• Scrumhalf – Receives the ball after it is won and quickly distributes it to launch the next attack

Success in the lineout relies on excellent timing between the hooker, jumpers, and lifters. Teams mostly use coded calls to decide where the ball will be thrown, helping to disguise their intentions from the opposition.

What Happens Next?

Once possession has been secured, the team has several options. The jumper may:

• Pass the ball to the scrumhalf to move it quickly to the backs
• Bring the ball down and set up a maul
• Transfer the ball to a teammate to continue the attack

The lineout is one of rugby's most strategic set pieces and requires every player to understand their role. Although the hooker, jumpers, and lifters receive most of the attention, every player contributes to creating space and preparing for the next phase of play.

For more information about each player's responsibilities at the lineout, visit the Rugby Positions section.

Above all, every player, coach, and parent should take the time to read and understand the World Rugby Lineout Laws before taking part in contested lineouts.