The Role of Flankers in Rugby: The Versatile Workhorses

Flankers are dynamic, versatile, and crucial players in rugby. Positioned on either side of the scrum, flankers wear the numbers 6 (blindside flanker) and 7 (openside flanker) and are responsible for a wide range of tasks, including tackling, rucking, ball-carrying, and disrupting the opposition’s attack. Known for their relentless work rate and athleticism, flankers must be among the fittest players on the field, constantly moving from one phase of play to the next. This blog will explore the key responsibilities of flankers, their distinct roles as openside and blindside players, and the skills that make them indispensable to any rugby team.

Check out our Rugby 101 post here to start with the entire game.

The Basics: Who Are the Flankers?

Flankers are part of the back row of the scrum, along with the number 8. Their primary role is to provide mobility, aggression, and support in both attack and defense. Flankers must be adaptable, as they are involved in almost every phase of play. Whether it’s tackling, competing for the ball at the breakdown, carrying the ball, or supporting teammates, flankers are constantly on the move and at the heart of the action.

Flankers are typically strong, fast, and incredibly fit. Their role requires a blend of physicality and agility, as they must compete for possession in the tight spaces of the ruck while also having the speed to cover ground and make tackles across the field.

Blindside vs. Openside Flanker

While both flankers have similar responsibilities, there are some key differences between the blindside (6) and openside (7) positions. These distinctions are largely based on where each player lines up in relation to the scrum.

1. Blindside Flanker (Number 6): The blindside flanker operates on the side of the scrum closest to the touchline. As the name suggests, they often work on the “blind” side of the field, where there is less space for the attacking team to work with. The blindside flanker is typically larger and more physical than the openside, as their role involves making big tackles and contesting rucks in tighter, more confined areas of the field.
   Key Responsibilities:
   • Tackling: The blindside flanker is often responsible for making dominant tackles on opposition ball carriers, particularly around the fringes of the ruck or scrum.
   • Defending the Short Side: They must defend the narrow channel on the blindside of the scrum, stopping any potential attacking moves down this side.
   • Physicality in the Ruck: Blindside flankers are heavily involved in the breakdown, clearing out opposition players and securing quick ball for their team.
2. Openside Flanker (Number 7): The openside flanker plays on the side of the scrum with more open space, usually on the right-hand side for right-handed scrums. Openside flankers are known for their speed and ability to get to the breakdown quickly. Their primary role is to disrupt the opposition’s attack by competing for the ball at the breakdown, often attempting to win turnovers or slow down the opposition’s play.
   Key Responsibilities:
   • Competing for the Ball: The openside flanker’s main job is to contest possession at the breakdown. They are often the first player to arrive at the tackle, looking to steal the ball or force a penalty by catching the opposition off-guard.
   • Tackling: Openside flankers are also relentless tacklers, tasked with shutting down opposition runners, particularly in the wider areas of the field.
   • Supporting Play: In attack, the openside flanker must be in position to support the ball carrier, providing an option for an offload or being available to secure the ball at the breakdown.

The Breakdown: Flankers as Ball Hunters

One of the most crucial aspects of a flanker’s role is their work at the breakdown. The breakdown occurs after a tackle, where players from both teams compete to either secure or turn over possession. Flankers are often referred to as “ball hunters” because of their ability to arrive at the breakdown quickly and contest for the ball.

Turnover Specialists: Openside flankers, in particular, are known for their ability to win turnovers at the breakdown. They time their entry into the ruck to perfection, using their strength and low body position to jackal over the ball (stealing possession). This ability to win turnovers is invaluable, as it can halt the opposition’s attack and provide the team with quick counter-attacking opportunities.

Securing Possession: On the other side of the ball, flankers are responsible for ensuring their team retains possession at the breakdown. They must clear out opposition players attempting to steal the ball and secure quick, clean ball for their scrum-half to distribute.

Tackling: The Flanker’s Bread and Butter

Flankers are known for their tackling ability, and they are often among the top tacklers in any game. Their mobility allows them to cover a large area of the field, meaning they are often involved in stopping opposition attacks in both tight and open spaces. Whether it’s a powerful hit on a forward or a cover tackle on a speedy back, flankers need to be versatile in their tackling technique.

Defensive Leadership: Flankers are often tasked with leading the defensive line, especially the openside flanker, who is responsible for disrupting the flow of the opposition’s attack. A well-timed tackle from a flanker can stop an attack in its tracks, while their presence at the breakdown after the tackle can force turnovers or penalties.

Relentless Pressure: Flankers need to put constant pressure on the opposition, not just through their tackles but also by contesting every ruck and making it difficult for the opposition to generate momentum. Their work rate and intensity can set the tone for the team’s defensive efforts.

Ball Carrying and Support Play

In addition to their defensive duties, flankers are also key contributors in attack. Their role as ball carriers often sees them taking the ball into contact, using their strength to make hard yards and create opportunities for their teammates. Flankers are frequently involved in the tight exchanges near the ruck but are also capable of making wider runs in open play.

Carrying into Contact: Flankers often carry the ball into contact, particularly in close quarters near the breakdown. Their job is to gain ground, draw in defenders, and ensure their team retains possession. In doing so, they create space for the backline to exploit.

Support Running: In attack, flankers are expected to provide support to the ball carrier. Whether it’s running off the shoulder of a forward making a break or securing possession at the breakdown after a teammate has been tackled, flankers must always be in position to assist in maintaining the flow of the attack.

The Ultimate Team Players

Flankers are the workhorses of the rugby team, combining speed, strength, and endurance to fulfill their demanding role. Whether it’s making key tackles, securing possession at the breakdown, or carrying the ball into contact, flankers are involved in nearly every phase of play. Their versatility makes them indispensable, and their relentless work ethic ensures that they are always in the thick of the action. A strong flanker pairing can make the difference between a good team and a great team, providing the foundation for both attacking opportunities and defensive resilience.

Scott Ferrara

Beyond statistics and analysis, The Big Guy will bring stories from the field to life. Expect vivid descriptions of pivotal moments, dramatic turns of events, and personal stories from players that add emotional depth to the article.

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