Ricoh launches new Gameplay film as part of Rugby Change Series

Global technology company, Ricoh today launches the second film in their Ricoh’s Rugby Change Series; which identifies and analyses the major changes in rugby that have occurred over the years.

The game of rugby is now more compelling than ever, reflected by its increasing fan base, TV audiences and global popularity. The second film in Ricoh’s Rugby Change Series focuses on Gameplay and delves deeper into the transformation of the players and explores how their workload has changed across each position.

Ricoh’s research has revealed a significant increase in tackles and carries made per game since 2011. Additionally, it seems to be the forwards, in particular Hookers, who are making the greatest impact. On the whole, forwards are committing 3.5 extra tackles and carries per game, Hookers however are now performing 4.8 extra tackles and carries, a staggering increase of 50%. Ricoh’s new film identifies the reasons behind this increased workload, and explores how forwards have adapted to the changing game.

Surprisingly, although the number of tackles has increased Ricoh’s study suggests that the tackle success rate has been in decline for the last 8 seasons. 

It is not just the physicality of the modern game that makes it so compelling, but the increasing number of tries scored per game. Ricoh’s findings have also revealed that the number of tries per game is now at its highest since the millennium at 4.7.

The film investigates why these changes have taken place in the game, with exclusive content from World-Cup winner Ben Kay MBE, England star Maro Itoje and leading Premiership Rugby coaches and players.

To view the Gameplay Video, please visit: www.workstyle.ricoh.co.uk/rugby-change-gameplay/
Chas Moloney, Marketing Director for Ricoh UK & Ireland, commented: ‘We are incredibly excited to launch the next film in our Rugby Change Series. We hope it provides fans with invaluable insight and further understanding into the complex game of rugby. It’s fascinating to see how far the game has come, and in particular how players have adapted to the increasing expectations put upon them, not just by their clubs and team mates but by their fans. After all, being able to adapt to a changing environment is essential to ensure you remain competitive; in sport and in business.’ 

Maro Itoje, Ricoh ambassador added – ‘We all know that rugby has undergone significant change over the last few years, however it’s very interesting for me to understand how my own position has changed, the key reasons behind those changes, and what is expected of me now. This vital knowledge will allow me to further develop my own skill set and improve as a player.’