Rugby coaching tips for the dummy switch pass

Why it works

The "dummy switch" between the 10 and 12 holds the inside defence. This causes enough uncertainty to create a 2 v 1 for your 10 and 13 against an opposition centre.

Good if you have

• Already performed a "switch" with your 10 and 12.

• A 13 who is a strong ball carrier and can bust through defences.

What players should do

• 10 runs forwards with the ball and turns out.

• He "dummy switch" passes to 12 and attacks the "inside shoulder" of the defender in front. He pops a pass to 13.

• 12 runs a "dummy switch" with 10.

• 13 holds his run and picks a line to take a "pop pass" from 10.

Common mistakes

• 10 must interest two defenders, so he must attack the "inside shoulder" of his opposite number and the defender next to him.

• 12 and 13 run too early. Consequently 12 does not interest the defence and 13 arrives too early to see the gap.

• 13 does not run with conviction, so even if he takes a pass close to contact, he might not be able to burst through.

Key rugby coaching tips

What players should think about:

• 10 passing the ball immediately after the "dummy switch" to allow 13 more time to adjust his run and line, while giving the defence less time.

• 10 chip kicking for 13.

• 13 running in and cutting out to take a long pass from 10.

Click the link to see more backs moves when you order a copy of 50 Great Backs Moves, a unique manual of try-scoring tactics and the ways to coach them, which will provide your team with solid and dependable firepower from set pieces.

Click the link for a Lomu-inspired backs move.