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Players and positions

Beginner's Guide - Positions

The make-up of 15s and sevens teams are different: in 15s rugby there are eight 'forwards' and seven 'backs' and in sevens there are three forwards and four backs.

The positions 

The make-up of 15s and sevens teams are different: in 15s rugby there are eight 'forwards' and seven 'backs' and in sevens there are three forwards and four backs.

There are common names for positions but some regional variations may exist.

A game for all shapes and sizes

Rugby union has always been characterised by the notion that it is a game for all shapes and sizes.

Uniquely, each position requires a different set of physical and technical attributes and it is this diversity which makes the game so accessible to all.

Positions by number

Number Common name Regional variations
1 Loose-head prop  
2 Hooker  
3 Tight-head prop  
4 Second-row Lock
5 Second-row Lock
6 Blindside flanker  
7 Open side flanker  
8 Number 8 Lock, Eight Man
9 Scrum-half Half back
10 Fly-half First five-eighth
11 Left wing  
12 Inside centre  
13 Outside centre  
14 Right wing  
15 Full-back  

 

 

Rugby Beginner's Quiz

Rugby Beginner's Quiz

New to rugby? Find out how much you know about the game.