While it’s true that many of you know rugby, not all of you know how the game is played, do you? If we talk about “forwards” and “backs” or “goal line” and “touch line”, do you know what we are referring to?
In today’s blog we are going to explain the positions in rugby, something fundamental to be able to understand the rules of this sport and go prepared to the next rugby match you attend or watch.
The picture above will be the guide to explain the rugby positions and its roles.
Every rugby team is composed of 15 players, each with their own designated position. There are seven backs and eight forwards, and with the option of having up to 8 players ready as substitutes.
The forwards (Position 1 – 8)
The forwards are a group of players in rugby who have important responsibilities and crucial roles on the field. They determine player positions 1 to 8, including the front row, second row, flankers, and number 8.
Let’s explore the primary roles in the forward positions and discover the unique characteristics and responsibilities of each player.
Loosehead and Tighthead Prop (numbers 1 & 3)
Together with the hooker, the loosehead and tighthead props form the front row in rugby scrum positions. Both props need to be very strong in the neck, shoulders, upper body, and legs to succeed, and they should rejoice in competing head-to-head with their opponents.
The props prevent their side of the scrum from being pushed back, while also assisting the hooker in supporting their body weight and positioning to strike the ball during the scrum. Props need to assist in lifting or supporting the jumper during the lineout to stop the opposing team from gaining possession of the ball.
Hooker (number 2)
The hooker takes on a crucial decision-making position in the attack line. He or she, located between the two props in the scrum, works to time the play and aims to gain possession by hooking the ball back between the props’ legs.
They play a key role in accurate lineout throws and participate in open play, ensuring possession during rucks and mauls.
The locks and back row are usually taller players, so they are lifted in order to compete for the ball. It is those props mentioned earlier who perform the lineout lifting, leaving the hooker as the last forward standing. Having the ability to be a powerful runner will be advantageous for any hooker.
Lock/Second row (numbers 4 & 5)
Locks or second row forwards, play a crucial role in the scrum’s strength and are the main focus in lineouts. Their success requires them to be tall, powerful, and technically skilled. Precise binding and agile lineout jumping deter the opposing team from gaining possession.
Due to their distinct genetic characteristics, second rows are among the highest-paid individuals in their profession, highlighting the significance of securing possession during lineouts.
Flanker/Wing Forward (Numbers 6 & 7)
Flankers are typically seen as players with minimal specific duties, so they need to be versatile and have endless energy. Speed, power, endurance, ability to tackle, and handling abilities are all necessary.
Among all the positions in rugby, they are frequently found in the middle of the action – securing balls at the ruck and maul, receiving quick passes from tackled players, and delivering impactful tackles during open play.
The open-side flanker is usually located on the side of the scrum closest to the touchline and is typically larger than the blind-side flanker, which allows for greater mobility on the field. The blind-side flanker typically plays a larger, more physically demanding role.
Number Eight (Number 8)
No.8 excels in supporting play, tackling, and ball-carrying, with responsibilities similar to those of the two flankers. The back row is created by this trio.
The No.8 is positioned on the right side at the back of the scrum and is the only forward player permitted to lift the ball from the scrum base.
It is a common tactic to gain important yards near the other team’s try line during a scrum, and for it to work well, the No.8 player needs to be a powerful, lively runner.
Back line positions (Position 9 – 15)
In rugby, the term “rugby backs” is used to describe the agile players positioned in the backline of a rugby team. The positions in rugby that are numbered 9 – 15 are known as the backs. The backs have the dual responsibilities of leading the team’s offensive and defensive tactics.
These individuals have a significant impact on the game’s outcome by scoring tries and converting goals.
Scrum-Half (Number 9)
Playing a crucial role in connecting the forwards and backs, the scrum-half is essential for initiating attacks in rugby. In the area directly behind the forwards, an effective scrum-half has the ability to determine the precise moment when the ball is passed to the backs during a scrum, ruck, or maul.
The player requires excellent vision, speed, and awareness, as well as quick hands and reactions.
Fly-Half (Number 10)
The fly-half, also known as the stand-off, is seen as the heart of the team and is considered the most important player on the field. This crucial role requires making significant choices on whether to distribute the ball to the midfielders or kick for better field placement.
The fly-half coordinates the back line and responds to defensive openings, playing a crucial part in carrying out planned strategies and initiating successful offensives.
Moreover, the fly-half is tasked with easing pressure through strategic kicking and typically acts as the primary placekicker for conversions, penalties, and drop goals.
Their significant impact on the team means they are the highest-paid players in the professional leagues.
Wingers (Number 11 & 14)
The winger serves as the team’s main attacker while playing on the sidelines of the field. Pace is the main asset of a winger, who is frequently the final line of defence without possession of the ball.
Centres (Number 12 & 13)
The centres face off against their counterparts in an effort to either break the defence or attract sufficient opposition players to open up space and scoring chances for their teammates. Therefore, they must possess strength and power, and be skilled at tackling when shifting from offense to defence.
The inside centre is typically responsible for creativity in a centre pairing and should have passing and kicking abilities almost as good as the fly-half. At the same time, the outer central player usually has more speed, and it is crucial to be able to pass the ball to the wings rapidly.
Full-back (Number 15)
The full back position is located behind the entire back line and acts as a defensive sweeper, offering a final line of protection against enemy attacks.
Furthermore, full-backs often have the responsibility of catching long kicks from the other team. Their crucial skill lies in confidently catching high balls and starting counterattacks from these opportunities.
This rugby role necessitates a combination of abilities, such as tackling, kicking, catching, and running, all executed in intense circumstances.
Frequently asked questions on rugby positions
What rugby position should I play?
Rugby positions have long been defined by the idea that the game is suitable for individuals of various body types.
Uniquely, every rugby position demands specific physical and technical qualities, making the game accessible to all due to its diversity. As explained in each position, which one would you choose?
Which is the hardest position in rugby?
Deciding which role is the toughest in rugby is not just a fascinating query but also a heated discussion among fans and athletes. Every position requires specific physical tasks, strategic significance, and skill prerequisites. This results in a variety of viewpoints regarding which position actually poses the biggest challenge during play. However, if we had to choose the three hardest rugby positions, those would be: Hooker, Fullback and Lock.
What are the positions in Rugby 7’s?
In 15-a-side rugby, the team consists of eight forwards and seven backs, while in 7-a-side rugby, there are three forwards (including a hooker and two props) and four backs (comprising a scrum half, a fly half, a centre, and a winger), making the composition distinct.
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