Flanker Meaning in Rugby Union

A flanker is a forward who stands on the outer edges of the scrum during a match. There are two flankers on every team, wearing the numbers six and seven on their jerseys. These players are often the most versatile and fittest athletes on the entire rugby pitch. Their main job is to break away from the scrum quickly to tackle the opposing playmakers. They are experts at winning the ball back during the breakdown and the resulting rucks. Flankers must be fast enough to cover the whole field but strong enough to hit very hard. They are often the first players to arrive at any point of contact on the grass. For example, a flanker might dive onto a loose ball a split second after a tackle is made. This quick reaction wins possession for their team and stops the opponent’s momentum instantly. They are the ultimate defensive workhorses.