Research is currently underway to explore the possibility of introducing a smaller ball (size 4.5) in women’s rugby. The proposed ball is approximately 3-4% lighter and 3% smaller than the current size 5 ball. This initiative stems from the recognition that female hands are typically 10% smaller than those of males. Lindsay Starling, Science and Medical Manager for World Rugby, believes that a smaller ball would be more proportional to the size of women’s hands, leading to better grip, reduced knock-ons, increased passing speed and accuracy, fewer scrums and rucks, and enhanced lineout throws and kicking distances. While the proposal is met with mixed reactions, the head coach of the women’s team acknowledges that a smaller ball could foster greater participation among younger players. Trials have commenced in the Women’s Under-18s tournament and Celtic Challenge sides, with England wing Abby Breach expressing interest in the outcome but asserting her contentment with the current size 5 ball.