Rugby / Law 02
The ball
World Rugby · 2026In short
The oval ball’s size, weight, pressure and youth exception.
Shape and dimensions
The ball is oval, made from four panels of leather or a suitable synthetic material. It measures 280–300 mm in length, 740–770 mm around its long circumference and 580–620 mm around its short circumference. Its weight is 410–460 g. Treatment to improve grip and water resistance is permitted.
Pressure and replacements
At the start of play, inflation pressure must be 65.71–68.75 kPa. This is the pressure range specified by the supplied rulebook, rather than a requirement to use the same ball size at every age. Smaller balls may be used in matches between young players. Spare balls may be available during a match.
Independent explanations and translations, not official federation publications. Based on the supplied World Rugby Laws of the Game Rugby Union 2026. Under-19, sevens, tens and Game-on variations are explained separately. Elite-only exceptions are labelled; these are not Rugby League rules. References use physical PDF pages, 2 above printed page numbers.
Sources & approach ↗
Sources & approach ↗