Edinburgh Napier University

  The purpose of this study was to review some of the key statistics collected by the International Rugby Board (IRB) in their review of the game (2003) and to compare these findings in relation to previous statistical analysis studies. Primary objectives of Rugby Union where identified using the IRB statement of intent. Statistics collected by the IRB for these objectives were then compared to parallel research in other sports regarding recommendations for effective play. The IRB statistics for Rugby Union would appear to replicate previously discovered characteristics of football (Reep and Benjamin, 1968), and would seem to favour a 'long ball' style of play in order to maximise scoring success. This paper highlights the IRB findings and illustrates the possible benefits of comparison and cross referencing with previous research in other sports.