Choke Tackle Meaning in Rugby Union

A choke tackle is a defensive technique where players hold the ball-carrier upright to prevent them from falling. Instead of pulling the runner down, the defenders wrap their arms around the ball and the player’s chest. This keeps the ball-carrier off the ground and creates a standing contest called a maul. If the ball does not come out of this pile quickly, the referee stops the play. The defending team is then awarded a scrum because the ball was effectively trapped. This is a highly effective way to win the ball back without having to make a traditional tackle. It requires great strength and teamwork to keep a powerful runner standing up. For example, two defenders might hold a runner up until the referee shouts that the ball is dead. Their team wins a scrum and takes possession away from the attackers. It is a smart defensive play.