Rugby Field Dimensions

A rugby union pitch has a field of play up to 100 m long and 70 m wide, plus an in-goal area at each end between 6 and 22 m deep. H-shaped goalposts stand on each try line.

Dimensions

FeatureMeasurement
Field of play lengthUp to 100 m between try lines
WidthUp to 70 m
In-goal depth6 to 22 m (where possible, at least 10 m)
Goalposts5.6 m apart, crossbar 3 m high

Markings

  • Halfway line: kick-off point.
  • 10-metre lines: kick-offs must travel past them.
  • 22-metre lines: used for drop-outs and kicking laws.
  • 5-metre and 15-metre lines: used for lineouts and scrums.
  • Dead ball line: back of the in-goal area.

Laws referenced follow World Rugby’s Laws of the Game for rugby union; rugby league, sevens and domestic competitions can differ, so check the current laws for your competition.

Frequently asked questions

How big is a rugby pitch?

Up to 100 m by 70 m, plus in-goal areas.

How high is the rugby crossbar?

3 metres.

Why is it called the 22?

It was historically 25 yards (about 22 metres) from the try line.

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Sam Ayed
Sam Ayed

Sam Ayed is a soccer player, coach and lifelong sports enthusiast. As the editor of Sportmentary, he writes and reviews the site's guides, checks rules content against the official rulebooks of each sport's governing body, and keeps pages updated when those rules change.

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