10 Fun Facts About Rugby League

How many players are on each team on the field at one time in a game of Rugby League?

A Rugby League team consists of 13 players on the field at any one time, with an additional four interchange players on the bench. In contrast, Rugby Union teams have 15 players on the field.

Which 17-team Australia-New Zealand competition is known as the Telstra Premiership for sponsorship reasons?

It was formed in 1998 as a joint venture between the Australian Rugby League and News Corporation after a bitter split in the mid-1990s.

How many points is a try worth in Rugby League?

In Rugby League, a try is the primary method of scoring and is worth four points. In Rugby Union, a try is worth five points.

Which tournament, first held in France in 1954, is the sport's premier men's competition?

It was the first World Cup held for any form of rugby football, and Australia have lifted the trophy twelve times.

In which country did Rugby League originate as a distinct sport from Rugby Union?

Rugby League originated in 1895 in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, England, as a result of a split from the Rugby Football Union over the issue of payments to players.

What annual three-match series is contested between New South Wales and Queensland?

The State of Origin series is an annual best-of-three rugby league series between two Australian state representative sides, the New South Wales Blues and the Queensland Maroons. It is often referred to as 'Australian sport's greatest rivalry'.

What shape are the posts used for scoring goals in Rugby League?

Rugby League goal posts are H-shaped, consisting of two upright posts connected by a horizontal crossbar. A successful kick at goal must pass over the crossbar and between the uprights.

How many tackles is a team allowed before it must kick or turn over possession?

The six-tackle rule dates from 1972; before that, a four-tackle limit had been used from 1966, and originally there was no limit at all.

What is the name of the highest level of the British club game, contested by twelve teams from northern England and two from southern France?

Since it began in 1996 the competition has also featured clubs from Wales and Canada; Premiership Rugby is the top tier of English rugby union.

Which Rugby League position typically directs play and initiates the kicking game?

The Halfback (often wearing jersey No. 7) is considered the chief playmaker in Rugby League, responsible for directing the team's attack, managing the kicking game, and marshalling players.