Rugby is more than muddy scrums and big hits — it’s a game of tactics, tradition, and triumph. From the grassroots clubs of Wales to the World Cup stage, rugby union has carved out a legendary place in sporting history.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan of the Six Nations, still figuring out what a ruck is, or just want to prove you’re the biggest rugby brain in the pub — these rugby quiz questions are great for you. We’ll test your knowledge of rugby rules, World Cup winners, iconic players, and unforgettable moments.
Ready to put your rugby smarts to the test? Let’s kick off!
1. How many players are on the field per team in rugby union?
2. What year was the first Rugby World Cup held?
3. Which country has won the most Rugby World Cups?
4. What is a ‘try’ worth in points?
5. What is the name of the famous trophy awarded in the Rugby World Cup?
6. Which position wears the number 10 jersey?
7. In what country was rugby invented?
8. What colour card means a player is permanently sent off?
9. What is it called when players bind together and push after a tackle?
10. What does a ‘knock-on’ result in?
11. What’s the maximum number of points you can score from a converted try?
12. What are the two types of rugby?
13. Who is England’s all-time top point scorer in rugby union?
14. What’s the name of the annual competition between England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy?
15. Which team performs the Haka before matches?
16. What’s it called when players form a tunnel and push against each other after a line-out?
17. Who won the 2003 Rugby World Cup?
18. What’s the name of the line halfway across the field?
19. Which nation hosted the 2019 Rugby World Cup?
20. What’s the job of the hooker in a scrum?
21. What is the nickname of the South African national rugby team?
22. Which Welsh player was known as “The King”?
23. How many points is a drop goal worth?
24. What’s the name of the ruling body for rugby union worldwide?
25. Which country famously lost to Japan in the 2015 World Cup?
26. What shape is a rugby ball?
27. Which famous Irish centre earned over 100 caps and played in four World Cups?
28. What is the DRS system in rugby?
29. What is the term for a player tackling an opponent high around the neck?
30. Which country introduced rugby to the Olympic Games in 1900?
31. How many referees are involved in a rugby match?
32. What’s the maximum number of substitutions allowed in a rugby union match?
33. What colour is the referee’s card for a temporary 10-minute suspension?
34. What country are the Pumas from?
35. Which player scored the winning drop goal in the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final?
36. How far is the penalty kick line from the try line?
37. What does TMO stand for in rugby?
38. Who were the first hosts of the Women’s Rugby World Cup?
39. How long is the half-time break in rugby?
40. Which country hosted the first official international rugby match in 1871?
🏁 Final Whistle: How Did You Do In This Rugby Quiz?
🏆 36–40: International Test Legend
You’re a rugby encyclopedia! You probably explain the offside rule at the pub and wear your jersey year-round.
🥈 26–35: Club Captain
You know your stuff — clearly a seasoned fan with a solid understanding of the game and its culture.
⚔️ 15–25: Matchday Casual
You enjoy watching, but some rules and history might’ve flown over your head. Time to hit replay on a few classics!
🍺 0–14: Needs a Conversion
Your rugby knowledge needs a bit of coaching — but that’s okay, even legends start somewhere. Watch a few games and come back stronger.