A trial of a smaller rugby ball in women's international fixtures is drawing mixed reactions from players, with some finding it hinders their ability to perform. The balls are being used in the September and October WXV Global Series.
Players have noted a significant difference in ball shape and size compared to those used in training and domestic leagues. "In previous weeks it was actually a bit fatter, and then this week it definitely feels smaller," said one player. "There needs to be a bit more done in terms of how the balls are made. We had some new balls today versus the ones we've had for the last three weeks [and the difference] is massive."
The change has been trialled in the Under-18 and Under-20 Women's Six Nations and the HSBC Sevens Series. However, players are returning to domestic competitions where a standard size five ball is used, leading to frustration about inconsistency.
World Rugby stated that data from the trials is not yet available for the international XVs environment, as a substantial data set including player and match official responses, along with game data, is still being compiled. A spokesperson indicated that results will be published once sufficient data is gathered. The trial period is expected to conclude after the WXV tournaments, with a full analysis planned for early 2027. "The evidence to date suggests that further exposure produces greater results," the spokesperson added.
Some players feel they are being used as test subjects during global competitions, a sentiment compounded by the disparity between international and club game balls. The timeline for any wider outcomes or decisions based on the trial data is expected to extend beyond early 2027.