what is a penalty try in rugby

A penalty try in rugby is awarded when the defending team commits foul play that stops a try that would probably have been scored. The attacking team gets 7 points automatically , and there is no conversion kick.

Quick Scoop

It’s basically the referee saying: “That score was likely going to happen, but the defense illegally prevented it, so the try counts anyway.” In rugby union, the infringing player may also be cautioned, sin-binned, or sent off depending on the offense.

Common examples

• A deliberate knock-on near the try line.
• A cynical high tackle that stops the ball carrier just before grounding.
• Collapsing a maul or scrum when a try looks imminent.

Regular try vs penalty try

Type| Points| Conversion?| When it happens
---|---|---|---
Regular try| 5| Yes, worth 2 more if kicked| The ball is legally grounded over the try line
Penalty try| 7| No| Foul play prevents a probable try 1

In one line

A penalty try is rugby’s way of preventing a team from benefiting from illegal defense at the goal line.

TL;DR: If foul play stops a likely try, the referee awards the try anyway — worth 7 points, no kick needed.