Loose scrum formed around a rugby player with the ball in hand (4)

I believe the answer is:

maul

(Other definitions for maul that I've seen before include "Injure by clawing" , "Wound by scratching and tearing - rugby move" , "Attack fiercely, tearing the flesh" , "(Of animal) wound by scratching and tearing" , "Treat roughly eg with claws" .)

I've seen this clue in The Mirror.

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