What happens if we cannot field enough trained front-row players?

• Uncontested scrums: scrums become uncontested if either team cannot field a suitably trained front row, or if the referee orders it (Law 3.13). The match organiser may set conditions for starting a match with uncontested scrums (Law 3.14).
• Your responsibility: the team must make sure all front-row players and replacements are suitably trained and experienced (Law 3.12). Only players you nominated before the match may play front row in a contested scrum, and only in their nominated positions (Law 3.10).
• Last resort: another player may play in the front row only when no front-row replacement is available (Law 3.18).
• Numbers: uncontested scrums caused by a sending-off, yellow card or injury are still eight per side (Law 3.15).
• Elite rugby: in elite rugby, or if the match organiser decides so, a player whose departure caused uncontested scrums cannot be replaced, and a further player may have to leave as a sanction (Law 3.17).

In SA adult rugby (U20 and above), if the packs are mismatched, inadequate or unsuitable, the World Rugby laws are used to manage it (SA Rugby scrum law modifications, January 2026).