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HMS, TIP EQ-Bank 376 MC

A rugby team playing in heavy rain passes the ball less often and keeps it close to their forwards instead of spreading it wide.

What is the main reason for this tactical change?

  1. A wet ball is harder to catch and pass, so fewer passes reduces handling errors and lost possession
  2. Wet conditions increase injury risk, so the team avoids contact with opponents
  3. Slower play in the rain allows players to conserve energy for later in the match
  4. The team's forwards are more skilled than its backs, so the coach relies on the team's strengths
Show Answers Only

\(A\)

Show Worked Solution
  • A is correct: Rain makes the ball slippery. Each extra pass raises the chance of a dropped ball and lost possession, so the team reduces passing to keep control.

Other options:

  • B is incorrect: Keeping the ball with the forwards increases close contact with opponents, so the change cannot be about avoiding contact.
  • C is incorrect: Conserving energy is a typical response to hot conditions. The stem links this change to the rain and how it affects ball handling.
  • D is incorrect: Group strengths can influence tactics, but the stem gives no information about the players’ skill levels. The change is a response to the weather.