Rugby is a sport that requires players with different skill sets and physical attributes to excel. One position that is crucial to the game is the Number 8 position. In this blog, we’ll delve into what the Number 8 position entails, what skills are needed to excel in the position, the best Number 8s in rugby, and how it differs from the flanker position.
What is the Number 8 position in rugby?
The Number 8 position in rugby is a forward position that is traditionally positioned at the back of the scrum. Number 8s are responsible for controlling the ball at the base of the scrum and picking it up with their hands to initiate attacking moves. They are also expected to be involved in rucks and mauls, where they can use their strength to drive the opposition back and secure possession for their team.
How big are Number 8s, and what skills do they need?
Number 8s are typically big and strong, standing at around 6ft 3in and weighing between 110kg and 120kg. They need to be powerful, explosive, and agile to be effective in their role. They are expected to have excellent ball-handling skills and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Additionally, they need to be excellent tacklers, as well as have the stamina to play for the full 80 minutes.
Who are the best Number 8s in rugby?
There have been many great Number 8s in the history of rugby. Some of the most notable include Lawrence Dallaglio, Zinzan Brooke, and Kieran Read. Currently, the best Number 8s in rugby include Sam Simmonds of England, Duane Vermeulen of South Africa, and Ardie Savea of New Zealand.
How does Number 8 differ from Flanker?
While the Number 8 and flanker positions are both forwards, there are some significant differences between the two. The flanker is usually positioned on the sides of the scrum and is responsible for tackling the opposition, securing possession of the ball, and providing support to the backs. Number 8, on the other hand, is positioned at the back of the scrum and is responsible for controlling the ball at the base of the scrum and initiating attacking moves.
Do Number 8s make lots of tackles?
Number 8s are expected to be involved in tackling, but they are not usually the primary tacklers. They are more likely to be involved in driving the opposition back and securing possession of the ball. However, they still need to have excellent tackling skills to be effective in their role.
How much money do Number 8s make?
The salary of a Number 8 varies depending on the country they play for, the team they are on, and their level of experience. In general, top-level rugby players can earn salaries in the range of $500,000 to $1 million per year. However, the salaries of Number 8s may be higher or lower than this depending on the above factors.
Conclusion
The Number 8 position is a crucial part of any rugby team. Number 8s are typically big, strong, and powerful, with excellent ball-handling skills and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. While they are not usually the primary tacklers, they are still expected to have excellent tackling skills and be involved in driving the opposition back and securing possession of the ball. With their unique skill set, Number 8s are an essential part of any successful rugby team.
FAQ
What does the Number 8 do in rugby? A Number 8 is a forward position responsible for controlling the ball at the base of the scrum and initiating attacking moves. They are also involved in rucks and mauls and are expected to have excellent ball-handling skills, be powerful and explosive, and have the stamina to play for the full 80 minutes.
How is the Number 8 position different from the flanker position? While both Number 8 and flanker are forward positions in rugby, they have different responsibilities. The flanker is typically positioned on the sides of the scrum and is responsible for tackling the opposition, securing possession of the ball, and providing support to the backs. The Number 8, on the other hand, is positioned at the back of the scrum and is responsible for controlling the ball at the base of the scrum and initiating attacking moves.
Who are some of the best Number 8s in rugby history? There have been many great Number 8s in rugby history, including Lawrence Dallaglio, Zinzan Brooke, and Kieran Read.
What skills do you need to be a good Number 8? To be a good Number 8, you need to have excellent ball-handling skills, be powerful and explosive, have the stamina to play for the full 80 minutes, and be an effective tackler.
