World Rugby moves closer to introducing smaller ball in women’s game
IN THE SPOTLIGHT: World Rugby is pushing ahead with its trial of a women’s-specific size 4.5 ball, confirming it will now extend into the 15s format during the WXV Global Series.
Initially introduced at the start of the HSBC SVNS 2026 Series, the trial has already been rolled out across both sevens and 15s environments, including age-grade internationals and club training sessions. Developed alongside Gilbert, the ball features slightly smaller dimensions while retaining the weight, aerodynamics and performance characteristics of the traditional size 5.
Feedback so far has been encouraging. According to World Rugby’s Chief Player Welfare and Rugby Services Officer Mark Harrington, early responses from players suggest the change could enhance skill execution without compromising performance.
“It’s clearly important to see how the new ball works in the elite 15s game as well,” Harrington said.
“We’re excited to see how a women’s-specific ball helps the very best players at the WXV Global Series showcase their skills.”
The governing body will continue to monitor player feedback, injury data and overall gameplay trends before making any long-term decision.
The concept is not without debate. Discussions around ball size in the women’s game have simmered for years, with advocates arguing that a slightly smaller ball better suits hand size and could improve handling, while critics warn of added costs and unnecessary change at grassroots level.
Back in 2024, England head coach John Mitchell suggested that introducing smaller balls could even serve as a recruitment tool, helping make the sport more accessible to new players.
On the field, the differences are already noticeable. Great Britain Sevens captain Katie Shillaker pointed to improved handling as a key benefit.
“The offload, catch and pass is a little bit easier,” she told The Independent.
“But I think it affects the kickers more.”
With other sports such as cricket and basketball already using smaller balls in the women’s game, rugby may be edging toward a similar shift.
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— Rugby365 (@rugby365com) April 20, 2026
Additional reporting: The Independent
