players’ positions

A team is made up of seven backs and eight forwards; organized into three rows, the forwards take part in scrums and line-outs.

first row

Group made up of the hooker and the two props; the first rows meet in the scrum and try to prevent the opponent from moving the ball forward.

flank forward

Third-row position to the right of the no. 8 forward; this player uses power and speed to play offensive and defensive roles.

lock forward

Second-row position on the right of the field; one of this player’s roles is to recover the ball during line-outs, rucks and mauls.

third row

Group made up of the no. 8 forward and the two flank forwards; it is the last line of players in a scrum.

second row

Group made up of two forwards; one of its roles is to support the first row in a scrum.

hooker

Position between the two props; this player attempts to gain possession of the ball in a scrum and to kick it back to teammates.

right center

Back positioned near the right wing; an excellent passer, this player challenges opposing centers and breaks down the defense.

scrum half

Position that acts as a link between the forwards and the backs; this player recovers the ball in a scrum and mounts the team’s attack.

right wing

Back positioned on the right of the field; this player uses speed and agility to thwart opponents and score points.

tight head prop

Forward position to the right of the hooker; in a scrum, this player supports the hooker and pushes the opponent forward to gain field advantage.

fullback

Position in front of the goal; this player is the last line of defense for an opponent attempting to score a try.

no. 8 forward

Third-row position between the two flank forwards; when play is in progress, this player relays the ball from the forwards to the halfs.

left center

Back position near the left wing; an excellent passer, this player challenges opposing centers and breaks down the defense.

stand-off half

Position that acts as a link between the scrum half and the backs; an excellent strategist, this player directs the team’s offense.

left wing

Back who covers the left side of the field; this player uses speed and agility to thwart opponents and score points.

flank forward

Third-row position to the left of the no. 8 forward; this player combines power with speed to play offensive and defensive roles.

lock forward

Second-row position on the left side of the field; this player’s main role is to recover the ball during line-outs, rucks and mauls.

loose head prop

Forward positioned left of the hooker; in a scrum, this player supports the hooker and pushes the opponent to gain field advantage.