A
scrum (short for
scrummage) is a method of restarting play in
rugby that involves players packing closely together with their heads down and attempting to gain possession of the ball. Depending on whether it is in
rugby union or
rugby league, the scrum is utilized either after an accidental infringement or when the ball has gone out of play. Scrums occur more often, and are now of greater importance, in union than in league. Starting play from the
line of scrimmage in
gridiron football is derived from the scrum.