UNDERSTANDING PLAYER POSITIONS IN RUGBY

FORWARDS


The positions numbers 1-8 on the field are called the forwards: they work together to form a pod or a ruck when the ball carrier is tackled.

These players contest the lineouts and challenge in scrums.

These players are usually bigger and heavier than the backs as they need to win or retain possession of the ball, and is very useful in scrums where mass and strength count.

A rugby team consists of 15 players per side and is divided into forwards and backs.

BACKS

The positions numbers 9-15 on the field are called the backs.

These players are usually smaller than the forwards, and require speed, agility, balance and awareness.

The section below allows you to understand the roles of each player in the team.

FORWARDS

  • They support the hooker in the scrum, provide power at rucks and mauls and lift jumpers in the lineout.

  • They stand in the middle and front row of the scrum, and are responsible for winning the ball and throwing the ball at lineouts.

  • They support the hooker in the scrum, provide power at rucks and mauls and lift jumpers in the lineout.

  • These are usually the tallest players on the field. They provide lineout jumping, bind the scrum and drive it forward.

  • (Same as 4!)

  • They are closest to touch line and near the back of the scrum and provide additional force and aim to win turnover ball.

  • They are often required to be quicker and more mobile than the blindside flanker and usually operate as a unit with them.

  • They are the link between the forwards and backs and can control the ball at the back of the scrum, ready to launch an attack.

BACKS

  • They link between forwards and back at set pieces and feed the ball into the scrum.

  • They are very important for directing the play and tactics on the pitch.

    They need to communicate, make good decisions and are usually the team's goal-kicker.

  • They stay on the outside of backlines and provide speed and power to any attacking plays.

  • They need to read the game well, direct team attack plays and break opposition defences with good runs.

  • They work with the 12 to read the game, direct team attacks and break defences with good running.

  • They stay on the outside of backlines and provide speed and power to attacking plays.

  • They usually catch opponents' long kicks, provide the last line of defence and kick from their own 22 m line.