Rugby league positions

Rugby league positions determine the role and responsibilities of the players on the field. Each of the thirteen players on a rugby league team has a specific position, with their role defined by their number and the area of the field they cover. The positions can be broadly categorized into "forwards" and "backs," with the forwards typically involved in gaining ground and maintaining possession, and the backs responsible for creating and exploiting opportunities to score.

Forwards

The forwards consist of six positions: three "front row" players, two "second row" players, and one "lock."

Front Row

• Prop (Prop): The props wear jerseys numbered 8 and 10. They are usually among the largest and strongest players on the team. Their main role is to support the hooker in the scrum, gain ground by carrying the ball forward, and make tackles.
• Hooker (Hooker): Wearing the number 9 jersey, the hooker plays in the middle of the front row. The hooker's primary role is to win possession of the ball in the scrum and often acts as a link between the forwards and the backs during play.

Second Row

• Second Row Forward (Second Row Forward): Players wearing numbers 11 and 12 are second row forwards. They combine the roles of strength and agility, supporting the props and hooker in the scrum and providing ball-handling skills and mobility around the field.

Lock

• Lock (Lock): The lock wears the number 13 jersey and packs down at the back of the scrum. The lock is a key player in the scrum, providing extra weight and push. This position requires a player who can combine the strength of a forward with the agility and ball-handling skills of a back.

Backs

The backs are numbered 1 through 7 and are generally smaller, faster, and more agile than the forwards. Their primary role is to create and convert scoring opportunities.

Fullback

• Fullback (Fullback): Wearing jersey number 1, the fullback is often the last line of defense and is responsible for fielding kicks from the opposition and initiating counter-attacks.

Wingers

• Wingers (Wingers): Players wearing numbers 2 and 5, wingers are usually among the fastest players on the team. Their main role is to finish off scoring opportunities and defend against opposition wingers.

Centres

• Centres (Centres): Wearing numbers 3 and 4, centres are responsible for breaking through the opposition's defensive line and creating scoring opportunities for their team. They also play a key defensive role.

Halves

• Stand-off Half or Five-eighth (Stand-off Half/Five-eighth): The player wearing the number 6 jersey. This player is a key playmaker, often dictating the team's attacking moves.
• Scrum-half (Scrum-half): Wearing number 7, the scrum-half is another crucial playmaker who works closely with the stand-off half to direct the team's play.

Tactics and Strategy

The specific roles and responsibilities of each position can vary depending on the team's tactics and the coach's strategy. Players in certain positions may be expected to perform duties not traditionally associated with their role if it benefits the team's overall game plan.

See Also

• Rugby league gameplay
• Rugby league rules
• History of rugby league