How does the 40/20 rule work?

What Is the 40/20 Rule in Rugby?

In the fast-paced world of rugby league, smart tactical kicks can turn the tide of a match—and the 40/20 rule is one of the game's most rewarding moves when executed well.

Here’s how it works: if a player kicks the ball from behind their own 40-metre line and it bounces inside the field of play before going out over the sideline within the opponent’s 20-metre zone, their team is awarded the scrum feed. This means the kicking team regains possession—an invaluable advantage.

The key conditions are simple but strict. The kicker must be behind their 40-metre line when they make contact. The ball then needs to travel past the opponent’s 20-metre line before crossing the sideline, and crucially, it must bounce at least once between those two lines. If it flies directly out without a bounce, the 40/20 doesn’t count, and the other team gets the scrum feed instead.

Why does this rule exist? It rewards precision, field awareness, and bold decision-making. Pulling off a successful 40/20 not only shifts field position dramatically but can also deflate the opposition’s momentum. It’s a high-risk, high-reward play that demands accuracy and timing—think Jarryd Hayne launching a spiral kick from deep in his own half and watching it sail just right.

While not seen in every match, a well-timed 40/20 is one of rugby league’s most celebrated tactics. Coaches encourage it when the opportunity arises, but only the most composed players can pull it off under pressure. When it works, it’s pure brilliance—a moment where skill meets strategy, and the reward is total control of possession.