The very best 'trick shots' in rugby show exactly why we love this game

Defences are hard to beat these days, and none more so than in the professional game at the highest level. In order to do so, you need an innovative and well-drilled attack, which these sides most certainly do.

Korol Rugby has compiled some of the highest IQ plays in the game from recent years, ranging from the spectacularly drilled set-pieces to the quite frankly, bonkers pieces of head’s up, off the cuff rugby.

Naturally, the Barbarians and their New Zealand equivalents feature heavily in this video, with Tomas Cubelli’s set-piece reverse chip over the top against Australia a notable inclusion.

There’s also some Harlem Globetrotter style reverse passes and between-the-legs efforts which, spectacular in their own right, are also a well-trained and efficient method of beating rush defences when on the attack.

Bayonne’s superb try for Sean Robinson in 2019 against Agen is an example of such an action and goes to show just how cool, calm and collected players can be in some of the most intense pressure moments during a match.

Of course, there are many more instances of high IQ play which aren’t featured in the compilation, such as the NFL-style line-out throw-in for All Black Steven Luatua when playing for the Barbarians in that match against Australia.

WATCH: The Steven Luatua Quarterback Lineout throw against Australia

There’s no Carlos Spencer antics either unfortunately, but never fear, you can watch a selection of his best plays below as well.

Another excellent feature of the video is the focus on players who work on the fly, and make the most of tired defences not paying enough attention, such as Dan Biggar kicking to Josh Adams for his try against England and Baptiste Serin’s quick thinking for Alivereti Raka’s score in the World Cup.

There’s also a fair share of the long-lost – and much missed – tap penalty set-piece with the forwards. Planned moves which include a good chunk of sleight of hand between props and hookers, and which most often result in nothing. But they’re good to watch nonetheless.

Which “high IQ” play is your favourite? Leave your comments below.