Position Numbering
A rugby team or "side" consists of between fifteen (15)
and twenty two
(22) players. A maximum of any fifteen players are allowed on the pitch
at any one time during a match.
The starting fifteen are conventionally numbered 1 through 15, the
numbers denoting the players' positions on the field. See
Field Positions
Players numbered 1 - 8 are known as
"forwards" and are typically the larger, stronger players of the team
whose main job is to win possession of the ball.
| #1 |
Loose-head Prop - left |
left prop
prop-forward
|
Front Row |
Tight Five |
The "Pack" |
| #2 |
Hooker |
|
| #3 |
Tight-head Prop - right |
right prop
prop-forward |
| #4 |
Lock - left |
lock-forward |
2nd Row |
| #5 |
Lock - right |
lock-forward |
| #6 |
Flanker - blind-side or left |
wing forward
flank forward |
Back Row |
Loose Three
"loosies" |
| #7 |
Flanker - open-side or right |
wing forward
flank forward |
| #8 |
Number 8 |
"eight man" |
Players numbered 9-15 are referred to as
"backs" and tend to be the smaller, faster and more agile players.
Their main role is to exploit possession of the ball that is won by the
forwards
NOVA
