World Rugby is set to expand its trial of a smaller ball in elite women’s rugby. The upcoming use of a size 4.5 ball during the WXV tournament later this year marks a significant development in the sport.
Details of the Smaller Ball Trial
The new Gilbert ball measures about three percent smaller than the standard size five currently in use but maintains the same weight. This ball has already been employed in the HSBC SVNS series and has undergone previous trials in age-grade international competitions and club training sessions.
Objective of the Trial
World Rugby aims to collect data and feedback from players and coaches through this trial in the elite 15-a-side format. Many advocates within women’s rugby believe that a smaller ball can enhance the gameplay. However, others voice concerns regarding the potential costs for grassroots clubs needing to invest in alternative equipment.
Player Insights
Katie Shillaker, captain of Great Britain Sevens this season, shared her thoughts on the new ball. She remarked on the increased efficiency in offloading, stating, “The four-and-a-half size ball obviously comes with benefits: the offload, catch and pass is a little bit easier.”
- Shillaker noted that while the smaller ball may not affect her gameplay significantly, it provides advantages in offloading.
- She emphasized that defenders must adapt to the offloading possibility, adding a strategic layer to the game.
Wider Context
The introduction of smaller balls is not unprecedented in women’s sports. Other sports such as cricket and basketball routinely use smaller balls, considering that men’s and women’s hand sizes differ on average by about ten percent. Despite concerns regarding its impact on kicking, the unchanged weight of the smaller ball is believed to mitigate performance issues.
Overall, World Rugby’s initiative to expand smaller ball trials signifies a progressive step towards enhancing the women’s game, focusing on both performance metrics and player feedback.
