Balls to that: The inner workings of the Size 4.5 Ball Trial
18.09.26, 23:58 Updated 21.09.26, 10:01
Ailbhe O'Nolan
World rugby has made a recent decision to expand the women’s specific ball trial, with a roll out across the WXV Global series. A divisive topic, with strong opinions both for and against, the trial has begun.But why is this happening, what are the expected benefits and who is driving the initiative?
Beginnings of an idea
Prior to 2024, World Rugby and Gilbert began an initiative to develop a ball more suitable to the women’s game and women’s proportions.
In 2024 the initiative was trialled for the first time across under 18’s girls rugby, including the U18 Six Nations Festival in Wales. The feedback was mixed and complaints were made by some kickers that the decreased weight of the ball was impacting their kick. This was taken into consideration, and the ball was redeveloped to maintain the weight of the size 5 balls in the trial size 4.5 version.
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Ailbhe O'Nolan Ailbhe O'Nolan is a sports journalist specialising in women’s rugby and the host of MudderRucker, the original and most established podcast dedicated to Irish women’s rugby. A passionate follower of the game, she provides in-depth coverage of the Irish team, players and competitions, combining match analysis with a fan's appreciation for the sport.