boxkicking

Boxkicking is a term primarily used in rugby union and rugby league to describe a tactic where a player deliberately kicks the ball as far downfield as possible, often towards the touchline, with the intention of gaining territory. The goal is to move play away from their own team's defensive area and towards the opposition's. This is typically done when a team is under pressure, to relieve that pressure and force the opposing team to restart play from further away.

The kick is often executed from open play, usually by a fly-half, scrum-half, or fullback. The aim is not necessarily to find a specific target or a teammate, but rather to maximize the distance the ball travels and push the opposition back. A well-executed box kick can significantly disrupt the attacking momentum of the opposition and give the kicking team's defense a chance to reset.

However, boxkicking is not without its risks. If the kick is poor, it can be charged down by an opponent or kicked directly out of play on the full, resulting in a lineout for the opposition where they are still advancing. It can also be returned with interest by a capable fullback. Therefore, the decision to box kick is often a tactical one, made in specific game situations where the potential rewards outweigh the risks. Coaches and players must consider field position, the opposition's defensive setup, and the abilities of their own players when employing this tactic.