The ‘jackal’ has become extremely common in modern rugby parlance. Players like David Pocock, of Australia, and Wales captain Sam Warburton are lauded the world over for their ability to steal the ball in a contact situation. Even if they don’t win the ball, they often win a penalty because the speed with which they latch onto the ball often leads to the tackled player holding on.

The key to perfecting the jackal is the speed with which you get back to your feet – too slow and support players will have arrived to help their tackled team-mate and form a ruck. You need to bounce straight up after making the tackle so you can then go for the ball – and spreading your arms or even clapping your hands demonstrates to the referee that you have released the player before trying to steal possession.

Watch the video below to see mini rugby players demonstrating this skill.

In every issue of Rugby World magazine you will find step-by-step guides on how to perform various skills to help mini rugby players develop their overall game. Mini rugby coach Nigel Botherway also provides details of different training games minis can play, which are fun and help to improve skill levels.

We have also produced videos showing mini players performing various skills so you can practise replicating what they do to learn the correct technique and improve your game.

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