Rugby union positions

A rugby union team consists of 15 players, eight forwards numbered 1 to 8, and seven backs, numbered 9 to 15. Depending upon the competition, there may be up to 7 replacements.

The main role of the forwards is to gain and retain possession of the ball. They take part in set pieces of the scrum and the line-out. Generally, forwards are larger than the backs, which makes them stronger but slower. Forwards also have a role in taking the ball forwards, but generally do so by driving into the opposing forwards.

The role of the backs is to move the game forward by running or kicking the ball. The fly-half controls how to do this. The backs tend to score more tries. The backs tend to be smaller than the forwards and as a result more agile and faster, but less strong.

Backs

15. Full back

The role of the full back is primarily defensive; In defence, he (or she) acts to collect kicks by the opposition. Having taken a kick, the full back may counter-attack or punt forwards, so good kicking skills are required. In attack, the full back is often positioned behind the back line and runs into the back line at pace. The full back is also the last line of defence, so good tackling skills are required.

The wings often act as additional full backs on opposition kicks.

14. and 11. Wing

Notable wings include David Campese (Australia) and Rory Underwood (England and British Lions)

10. Fly-half

Notable fly-halves include Joel Stransky (South Africa) and Jonny Wilkinson (England and British Lions).

9. Scrum-half

Notable scrum-halves include Rob Howley (Wales and British Lions) and Joost van der Westhuizen ((South Africa).

Forwards

1. Loosehead prop

Notable loosehead props include Jason Leonard (England and British Lions).

2. Hooker

Notable hookers include Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand) and Keith Wood (Ireland and British Lions)

4. & 5. Lock

Notable locks include John Eales (Australia, Martin Johnson (England and British Lions) and Colin Meads (New Zealand)

7. Openside flanker

Notable opensides include Neil Back (England and British Lions) and [[Josh Kronfeld) (New Zealand and British Lions)

8. Number eight

Notable number eights include Zinzan Brooke (New Zealand) and Dean Richards (England and British Lions.