The inclusion of Rugby Sevens in the Olympics has been applauded by some and shot down by others. These others, either boasting of rugby’s demise to league, or fearing for rugby’s survival, are afraid of Sevens replacing real rugby.
It’s time to set this idea straight.
Those who are afraid of rugby’s demise obviously do not realise the way that rugby sevens is played.
Sevens was developed in Melrose, in the borders region of Scotland. It consists of two seven minute halves, three forwards and four backs – one of which is a halfback.
Furthermore, all conversions are drop goals rather than placed. This style of game was developed in order to complete a full competition over a weekend.
The sheer difference in time means that the Sevens game cannot ever replace the full version of rugby, and if anything, the positioning threatens the existence of rugby league.
Many of the players in Sevens can go on to fifteens, as backs or loose forwards, and the Sevens game can convert the league players through the Olympics incentive.
The Sevens game is exciting and entertaining, yes, but will never beat the contest at the breakdown of the full game, a main attraction to those who love rugby.
I see the sevens game as a blessing to the game of rugby, not a herald of demise.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
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