Rugby Flankers: Agile and Versatile Players
A flanker in rugby is a position within the forward pack, typically occupying the number six or number seven jersey. Flankers are known for their agility, speed, and ability to engage in both offensive and defensive play. They play a crucial role in supporting the team's game plan, providing support to their teammates and disrupting the opposition's plays.
Flankers: Ball Retrieval Experts in Rugby
An interesting fact about what a flanker is in rugby is that they are often referred to as the 'jackals' of the game due to their exceptional ability to steal the ball from the opposing team. Using quick reflexes and immense strength, flankers have the unique skill set of gaining possession of the ball by exploiting the brief moment it is unsecured in the rucks and mauls, making them crucial assets in both offense and defense.
One of the primary responsibilities of a flanker is to secure possession of the ball during set pieces such as scrums and lineouts. They work closely with their locks and props in the scrum, using their strength and technique to try and force turnovers and regain possession for their team. In lineouts, flankers often act as jumpers, competing for the ball thrown in and securing it for their team.
Dynamic flankers dominate on the field
In open play, flankers are constantly involved in the action. They are expected to make tackles, contest for the ball on the ground, and disrupt the opposition's attacking moves. Flankers are extremely effective at slowing down the opposition's ball by competing fiercely at the ruck, where they can legally attempt to steal the ball or create turnovers. They use their speed and agility to get to the breakdown quickly and disrupt the flow of the opposition's attack.
Flankers: Supporting, Creating, and Scoring
A fun fact about what a flanker is in rugby is that they sometimes wear the number 6 or 7 jersey, but can also be known as the 'jackal.' This is due to their ability to swiftly steal the ball from the opposing team when they are at the breakdown, just like a clever fox snatching its prey!
Offensively, flankers also have an important role to play. They act as support runners, providing options for their teammates to pass to and help maintain possession. Flankers are often involved in line breaks, running powerful lines and creating gaps in the defense. Their ability to offload the ball in contact can lead to quick attacking opportunities or gain valuable meters.