A good quality rugby ball will help you improve your handling and kicking skills on and off the field.

Traditonally, rugby balls were made hand-stitched leather.

But it would often get very heavy when it was raining, making it very difficult to handle in slippery conditions.

However, modern technology has seen the introduction of sophistcated waterproof synthetic materials which make the ball easier to handle in wet and muddy conditions.

Ensure your ball is properly pumped full of air before you start practising your passing, catching and kicking on your own or with a team-mate.