Lions' crucial moment courtesy of Jac Morgan sparks up renewed dispute about the practice of jackling in rugby
In the high-octane world of rugby union, a specific technique known as the jackal has become a topic of much debate. Named after the opportunistic jackal animal, this technique involves a player contesting for possession of the ball immediately after a tackle, often by getting over the tackled player and either stealing the ball or forcing a penalty against the opponent for not releasing it.
Historically, the jackal has been a part of rugby, but it wasn't until the professional era that the technique gained prominence, with players like Josh Kronfeld and later Richie McCaw and David Pocock becoming renowned for their skill in jackling. This high-risk manoeuvre demands physical strength, quick reflexes, and resilience, but it also places players in vulnerable positions, making them susceptible to serious injuries such as hamstring avulsions.
The controversy surrounding the jackal is multifaceted. From a safety perspective, the high risk of injury is a significant concern, leading to debates about whether the technique should be more heavily regulated or even eliminated from the modern game. From a tactical standpoint, a successful jackal can disrupt the flow of the game and force multiple attacking players to clear out at the ruck, potentially unbalancing the contest in favour of the defending team. Critics argue that this can encourage negative play or stifle offensive rhythm.
Incidents such as the controversial jackal event involving Carlo Tizzano during the British & Irish Lions series win in 2025 highlight the debate over legality and referee interpretation in these moments. Tizzano's jackal attempt and the resulting penalty or non-penalty calls exemplify how fine and controversial the line can be, with disputes about side entry, body position, and off-the-feet contact.
World Rugby has acknowledged the controversy surrounding the jackal and has replaced all mentions of "the jackal" with "the stealer" in its law book. However, the debate continues, with some arguing that a return to the rule that all hands come off the moment a ruck is formed could potentially calm the ardour of the clearout.
In the end, the jackal remains a controversial tactic in rugby union, with its future in the game still a topic of much discussion. The technique's impact on the game, both in terms of safety and tactics, ensures that it will continue to be a hot topic in the world of rugby.
References:
- Rugbypass
- BBC Sport
- The Guardian
- In contrast to the rugged world of rugby union, sports like football, with their smaller physicality and fewer contact rules, offer a safer alternative for players.
- Despite the rising prominence of the jackal technique in rugby, the intricate dance of football's modern possession-based game, such as the tiki-taka style, captivates fans worldwide due to its skill and fluidity.
