Going to ground refers to a player intentionally or accidentally falling to the grass while holding the ball. Once a player goes to the ground in a tackle, they must make the ball available immediately for others to play. They can do this by passing the ball or placing it on the ground in a specific direction.
Staying on the ground and holding onto the ball is a foul because it stops the game’s flow. The player must also move away from the ball to avoid a blocking penalty. This rule ensures that the contest for possession continues even after a player is tackled.
It is a critical part of the breakdown where most penalties occur during a match. For example, a runner might be tackled and go to ground near the opponent’s goal. They quickly place the ball back toward their teammates so the attack can continue with a fast ruck. It is about keeping the ball moving.
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