Defensive retreat is one of the foundation systems in touch.
After a touch, defenders must retreat 7 meters or to the try line if they are closer than 7 meters. The first job after every touch is to get onside. A defender who stays too close creates penalties, opens space, and breaks the team's defensive line.
The retreat should be fast, organized, and connected. Players should not drift as individuals. The defensive line needs to recover together, communicate, and reset spacing before moving forward again.
Near the try line, the 7-meter rule becomes especially important. If the touch happens inside 7 meters, defenders retreat to the try line. This gives the attacking team space and makes communication even more important.