Rugby positions explained: forwards and backs

Fifteen players, two groups

In standard rugby union rules, each team has fifteen players on the field. They are split into two groups. Eight forwards (numbers 1 to 8) and seven backs (numbers 9 to 15). Forwards are mostly responsible for winning the ball in scrums, lineouts and rucks. Backs are mostly responsible for moving the ball and finding space to score. Youth leagues often use fewer players and different set pieces, so check how your league does it, but the roles below stay the same.

The forwards

The forwards are sometimes called the pack. They bind together in the scrum and do much of the tackling and rucking.

Props (1 and 3)

The loosehead prop (1) and tighthead prop (3) stand on either side of the hooker in the scrum. They support the scrum, and often help lift jumpers in the lineout.

Hooker (2)

Stands in the middle of the front row of the scrum and traditionally throws the ball in at lineouts.

Locks (4 and 5)

Also called second rows. Usually the tallest players, they jump in the lineout and push from behind the front row in the scrum.

Flankers (6 and 7)

Stand on the sides of the scrum. They tackle, chase the ball and compete to win it at rucks.

Number eight (8)

Stands at the back of the scrum and controls the ball at its base. A number eight often carries the ball and links forwards with backs.

The backs

Scrum-half (9)

The link between forwards and backs. The scrum-half feeds the ball into the scrum and passes it out from rucks and mauls.

Fly-half (10)

Often the main decision maker for the backs. The fly-half receives the ball from the scrum-half and decides whether to pass, run or kick.

Centers (12 and 13)

Run into gaps, pass to wings, and tackle opposing backs. The inside center is 12 and the outside center is 13.

Wings (11 and 14)

Play near the sidelines and are often the fastest players. They finish many scoring moves and chase kicks.

Fullback (15)

The last line of defense. The fullback catches kicks, tackles runners who break through, and joins the attack from deep.

Positions at a glance

What this means for young players

• Coaches of younger players commonly rotate children through many positions so everyone learns both groups of skills. Do not worry if your child plays somewhere different each week.
• Body size is not destiny. Many programs avoid fixing players into front-row positions early and group players by age and development, and rules about this vary by league.
• Every player, forward or back, must tackle, pass and support the ball carrier. The labels describe where players start, not what they are limited to.

Positions in sevens

In sevens there are three forwards and four backs on the field. The roles are less fixed because there is more open space, and every player is expected to run, pass and tackle.

Where to go next

If you are new to the sport, start with rugby rules for beginners so the scrum, lineout and ruck make sense, and keep rugby terms for new parents open on your phone at the sideline. You can find all of our guides on the rugby hub.

Watching positions in a game

A good way to learn is to pick one position per match and follow that player. Watch where a prop stands at a scrum, how a fly-half asks for the ball, and how a fullback drops back when the other team kicks. After a few games the shape of the team starts to make sense, and children often enjoy spotting their own position on the field.

Ask your child's coach how the team lines up and why. Most coaches enjoy the question, and it helps parents cheer for the right things.