what is a flanker in rugby and what is there job
Answer (1)
In rugby union, a flanker is a crucial position within the forward pack, typically wearing jerseys numbered 6 or 7. They are known for their versatility, combining strength, speed, and agility to contribute significantly to both offense and defense. The Flanker's Role: A Multifaceted Task Flankers are the link between the forwards and backs, playing a critical role in securing possession, disrupting opposition plays, and supporting attacks. Their responsibilities can be broken down into: 1. Breakdown Work: - Protecting the ball: When a teammate is tackled, flankers are crucial in forming a ruck to protect the ball from the opposition. They must be strong enough to hold their ground against opposing players trying to disrupt possession. [3]- Jackaling: Flankers are known for their ability to steal the ball from the opposition at the breakdown. This involves swiftly getting to the ruck, disrupting the opposition's efforts to secure the ball, and gaining possession for their team. [3]- Tackling: Flankers are often the first line of defense and are expected to make a high number of tackles throughout the game. Their ability to tackle low and bring down larger players is crucial. [3] 2. Set Pieces: - Scrums: Flankers are involved in the scrum, a set piece used to restart play after a minor infringement. They help to push in the scrum and are expected to detach quickly once the ball is out to join the play. [1]- Lineouts: Flankers participate in the lineout, a set piece used to restart play after a kick that goes out of bounds. They may be used as jumpers, competing for the ball thrown in, or as lifters, helping to lift other players. [1] 3. Open Play: - Support runners: Flankers often act as support runners for their teammates, providing options for passes and helping to maintain possession. [8]- Creating space: Their powerful runs and ability to offload the ball in contact can create gaps in the defense and lead to attacking opportunities. [8] The Two Flanker Positions: Openside and Blindside - Openside flanker (usually number 7): They are often the faster of the two flankers and are tasked with being the first to the breakdown, securing possession, and disrupting the opposition's play. They are often responsible for covering the wider areas of the field. [1]- Blindside flanker (usually number 6): They tend to be bigger than the openside flanker and are responsible for stopping moves by the opposition on the blind side of the scrum. They may also play a more physical role at the lineout and are often involved in cover defense. [1] Key Qualities of a Successful Flanker - Speed and agility: They need to be quick to react and cover the ground quickly to get to the breakdown and disrupt opposition plays.- Strength and power: They must be strong enough to compete for possession at the ruck and to make tackles against larger players.- Tackling skills: They need to be effective tacklers to stop the opposition's progress and secure possession.- Versatility: They should be comfortable in both offense and defense, with the ability to support attacks and disrupt opposition plays.- Game intelligence: Flankers need to be able to read the game, anticipate the opposition's moves, and make split-second decisions. In conclusion, flankers are essential players in rugby union, contributing significantly to both offense and defense. Their versatility, strength, speed, and game intelligence make them a vital part of any successful team.
