Common rugby rotations worked out
These are the splits for some of the squad sizes that come up most often. Your own numbers go in the calculator above.
| Squad | On at once | Game length | Time on | Time on bench |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 players | 15 | 50 min | 41m 40s | 8m 20s |
| 20 players | 15 | 60 min | 45 min | 15 min |
| 14 players | 10 | 40 min | 28m 34s | 11m 26s |
| 23 players | 15 | 70 min | 45m 39s | 24m 21s |
Rugby formats and squad sizes
| Format | Typical game length | Typical squad |
|---|---|---|
| Under 6-8 modified | 2 x 10-15 min halves | 8-12 |
| Under 9-11 | 2 x 15-20 min halves | 12-16 |
| Under 12-14 | 2 x 20-25 min halves | 15-20 |
| Under 15+ | 2 x 30-35 min halves | 18-23 |
Game lengths vary between associations and age groups, so treat these as a starting point and use your own competition's numbers.
How substitutions work in junior rugby
Junior rugby generally allows rolling substitutions, unlike the senior game where replacements are capped. Front row positions are the exception, because most unions require appropriately trained players there, so your rotation has to respect that.
That constraint is worth planning around. Work out your fair time split first, then check that every block still has a legal front row. If it doesn't, adjust the squad size you feed into the calculator to cover only the players who are interchangeable.
With 18 players and 15 on the field over a 50 minute game, each player gets about 42 minutes on and 8 off. That's a short bench stint, so rotating in blocks of three at fixed intervals keeps it simple.
Questions coaches ask
How do I work out fair game time in junior rugby?
Multiply game length by the number on the field and divide by your squad. With 60 minutes, 15 on the field and 20 players, that's 45 minutes each and 15 on the bench.
Can you roll substitutions in junior rugby?
Most junior competitions allow rolling substitutions, though front row positions usually require suitably trained players. Check your union's age grade rules before planning the rotation.
Does this work for modified formats?
Yes. Set the number on the field to whatever your age group plays, whether that's 7, 10, 12 or 15, and it works from there.
Can I print a rugby substitution sheet?
Yes. Add player names, calculate and print. It's free and there's no signup.
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