LAW 15. DROP-OUT

(1)

The drop kick must be taken from anywhere on or behind the twenty-two meters line; otherwise the ball shall be dropped out again.

(2)

The ball must cross the twenty-two meters line; otherwise the opposing team may have it dropped out again, or have a scrummage formed at the center of the twenty-two meters line. If it crosses the twenty-two meters line and is then blown back, play shall continue.

Note:-

(i)

If the ball does not cross the twenty-two meters line and an opponent picks up the ball and grounds it over the kicker's goal line, a try should be awarded.

(3)

If the ball is kicked directly into touch, the opposing team may accept the kick, have the ball dropped out again, or have a scrummage formed at the center of the twenty-two meters line.

(4)

The kicker's team must be behind the ball when kicked; otherwise a scrummage shall be formed at the center of the twenty-two meters line.

(5)

The opposing team must not charge over the twenty-two meters line; otherwise the ball shall be dropped out again.

Notes:-

(ii)

If a player of the opposing team remains beyond or crosses the twenty-two meters line for the purpose of delaying or interfering with the player who is about to drop-out, a penalty under Law 26(3)(i) should be awarded.

(iii)

The advantage law applies where the drop kick does not reach the twenty-two meters line and goes into touch.