Definition of scrum

The word "scrum" in the context of rugby originally referred to a process of restarting play after the ball has gone out of bounds. In this scenario, eight players from each team form a tight pack, called a scrum, around the ball, and compete to gain possession. The term "scrum" is believed to have originated from the Scottish word "scrummage," which was used to describe a disorderly struggle for the ball, as in picking up scraps or leftovers. This word, in turn, is thought to have derived from the Scottish word "scrum," which meant a "press" or "bunching together." The first recorded use of the term "scrum" in rugby can be traced back to the 1880s. It became commonly adopted in rugby league in the 1920s and rugby union in the 1940s. In recent years, the scrummaging technique has developed into a complex tactical strategy, requiring positioning, communication, and coordination among the players. The scrum is now a crucial element in many rugby matches, with the team that wins the scrum often gaining an advantage in territory and possession.