Flying Wedge Meaning in Rugby Union

The flying wedge is an illegal and highly dangerous attacking formation used during a penalty kick. This occurs when a group of players bind together in a triangle shape before receiving the ball. The ball-carrier stays at the back while the teammates in front act as a human shield. This formation hits the defensive line with a massive amount of concentrated weight and forward speed. It was banned because it caused too many serious injuries to the defenders who had to stop it. Modern rules require the ball-carrier to be in front or for the players to be separated. Referees will immediately blow the whistle and penalize any team that tries to form a wedge. For example, the attacking team might try to bind together to smash into the defense from five metres. The referee will stop the play and give the ball to the other team for safety. It is a relic of the past.