<P> Games are divided into 40 - minute halves , with a break in the middle . The sides exchange ends of the field after the half - time break . Stoppages for injury or to allow the referee to take disciplinary action do not count as part of the playing time , so that the elapsed time is usually longer than 80 minutes . The referee is responsible for keeping time , even when -- as in many professional tournaments -- he is assisted by an official time - keeper . If time expires while the ball is in play , the game continues until the ball is `` dead '' , and only then will the referee blow the whistle to signal half - time or full - time ; but if the referee awards a penalty or free - kick , the game continues . </P>
<P> Games are divided into 40 - minute halves , with a break in the middle . The sides exchange ends of the field after the half - time break . Stoppages for injury or to allow the referee to take disciplinary action do not count as part of the playing time , so that the elapsed time is usually longer than 80 minutes . The referee is responsible for keeping time , even when -- as in many professional tournaments -- he is assisted by an official time - keeper . If time expires while the ball is in play , the game continues until the ball is `` dead '' , and only then will the referee blow the whistle to signal half - time or full - time ; but if the referee awards a penalty or free - kick , the game continues . </P>
what is the duration of a rugby match
what is the duration of a rugby match
80 minutes
80 minutes