John Mitchell questions smaller ball rugby trial

England head coach John Mitchell believes the trial of a smaller rugby ball in the women’s game could have unexpected tactical consequences, including an increase in contestable kicking.

The bespoke size 4.5 ball will be used during the WXV Global Series in September and October.

John Mitchell Questions Smaller Ball Impact

The size 4.5 ball is around three per cent smaller than the traditional size 5 ball while retaining the same weight.

Mitchell said England’s kickers and key ball handlers have already been given the new ball to help them adapt before the international window.

While he believes players will adjust differently, the Red Roses coach admitted it remains difficult to predict exactly how the change will affect matches.

“It’s not something that is even obvious, really. I’m sure each individual will have different feelings as they go through the adaptation of playing with it.

“I’m not sure if the evidence is skewed, but there was definitely evidence that World Rugby made the decision on. At the end of the day, it all comes down to coaching.

"If you want to get better of something, regardless of the size of the ball, it’s all about coaching. I think our girls have been well coached through their careers with the bigger size ball, and they seem to have adapted very well."

Smaller Ball Could Increase Contestable Kicking

One possible consequence identified by Mitchell is an increase in contestable kicking.

He suggested the smaller ball could alter how teams approach territory and aerial battles, although he stressed that coaching would remain the biggest factor in determining how effectively players adapt.

“I think it’s too early for me to say that it is going to help our offloading game or our width of pass. I’m sure there might be consequences as well.

"There might be more contestable kicking, which is probably something we want to keep away from our game because it is a point of difference between us and the men."

England fly-half Zoe Harrison has previously criticised the trial and questioned whether the change is necessary after players have spent their careers using a standard size 5 ball.

Red Roses Prepare for WXV Global Series

England will face Canada, Australia and New Zealand at home before travelling to North America for further matches against Canada and the United States.