The scrum cap is a form of headgear used by

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players to protect the ears in the

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, which can otherwise suffer injuries leading to the condition commonly known as

cauliflower ear Cauliflower ear is an irreversible condition that occurs when the external portion of the ear is hit and develops a blood clot or other collection of fluid under the perichondrium. This separates the cartilage from the overlying perichondrium tha ...

s. Although originally designed for forwards they are now worn by players of all positions, even those who do not play in the scrum. A simpler alternative to a cap, or a head-cap and used by many players, is a thin strip of foam or cloth and electrical tape wrapped around the ears like a head band.

Construction

The scrum cap was first used by the

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's 1st XV, and Eurig Evans is credited with its design. The traditional scrum cap was constructed of a thin cloth helmet with padding over the ears, held in place by a strap—but modern models are typically made from thin foam. The headgear is defined by Regulation 12"REGULATION 12. PROVISIONS RELATING TO PLAYERS’ DRESS"
, IRB of

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as being made of soft, thin materials. Stiff materials, such as plastics, are forbidden, and buckles are not permitted. Regulation 12 also gives details regarding the testing standards for this headgear. All headgear to be worn in rugby union must carry a World Rugby approval logo.

Concussive protection

Since the early 1990s, other players have taken to wearing padded headgear. This is intended to protect from cuts and head injuries that can occur from incidental contact in

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or at rucks. Whilst they may prevent some cuts and abrasions, such headgear has not been shown to reduce concussive injury.

Legislation

has not made scrum caps compulsory, and many players and officials are divided over their utility. Former England captain

Mike Tindall Michael James Tindall, (born 18 October 1978) is an English former rugby union player. Tindall played outside centre for Bath and Gloucester, and won 75 caps for England between 2000 and 2011. He was a member of the England squad which won ...

criticised their usage by youth players, saying that they had a detrimental result on tackling ability from an early age. Welsh player Jonathan Davies similarly felt that they should not be compulsory, as injuries were part of the game. High profile referee

Nigel Owens Nigel Owens, (born 18 June 1971) is a Welsh former international rugby union referee, who retired in December 2020 after a 17-year career. He currently holds the world record for the most test matches refereed and is one of five international re ...

has however suggested making the wearing of headgear compulsory for all players, and they are mandatory for all players in Japanese youth teams.

References

{{DEFAULTSORT:Scrum Cap Rugby league equipment Rugby union equipment Protective gear Headgear Sportswear

Construction

Concussive protection

Legislation

See also

References