The ball is dropped from the hand or hands to the ground and kicked as it rises from its first bounce.

Expect the ball to go in all sorts of directions when you try drop kicking for the first time.

But with time and practice, the distance and direction will come.

Usually teams have one recognised drop kicker.

But it is a very useful skill for every back and even loose forward to learn.

Hold the ball in two hands, pointing downwards.

It's important you keep your eyes on the ball and your head still.

If it is a kick at goal, you will have already had a good look at the posts.

If it is a restart, pick a spot to aim at - if the ball does not travel at least 10 metres or goes straight out of play without bouncing, you will concede possession to the opposition.

As you step forward with your non-kicking foot, raise the ball to waist level.

Remember, keep your eyes on the ball.

As you drop the ball onto the ground, simultaneously bring your knee up ready to strike the ball on the bounce.

Just as the ball touches the ground, bring your kicking foot through and strike the ball with the lower part of your instep.

If you are taking a restart drop kick, you will be aiming for quite a bit of height to allow your forwards time to make up the ground to challenge for the ball as your opponents try to catch it.

Follow through and step up onto the toes of your non-kicking foot.

Raise your opposite arm to your kicking foot for extra balance.