KICKING THE BALL IN A RUCK:

If a player is part of the ruck he may attempt to kick the ball:
If he makes contact with a player on the ground which results in foul play, the sanction is a PK and possibly suspension/red card.
If he kicks the ball out of the scrumhalf’s hands the sanction is a PK and possibly suspension/red card.
If a player is not part of the ruck and then steps over or comes around the side of the ruck and kicks the ball:
PK and possibly suspension.
If he makes contact with a player on the ground which results in foul play, the sanction is a PK and possibly suspension/red card.
If he kicks the ball out of the scrumhalf’s hands the sanction is a PK and possibly suspension/red card.

Regards
RICHARD EVERY | High Performance Referee Manager | USA Rugby