In rugby, a lock is a forward who is positioned in the second row of the scrum and is an important part of both the attacking and defensive game plans of a team. The lock is often a tall, strong player who provides a physical presence in the game, and has specific responsibilities in different aspects of the game such as the lineout, scrum, breakdown and general play. In this article, we will explore the role of locks in rugby and what makes a good lock player.
How Big Are Locks in Rugby?
Locks are usually the tallest players on the field, with an average height of around 6’6″ (198cm). They also tend to be the heaviest players, with an average weight of around 260 lbs (118kg). These physical attributes make them well-suited for their role in the game, where they are required to exert force and power in scrums, lineouts, and general play.
What Do Locks Do in Defense?
In defence, locks are tasked with stopping the opposition’s attack and disrupting their momentum. They use their size and strength to tackle ball carriers and provide a physical presence at the rucks and mauls. Their height also makes them valuable in lineout defence, where they can contest for the ball or disrupt the opposition’s throw.
What Do Locks Do in Attack?
In attack, locks often play a more supportive role to the backs and other forwards. They are key contributors in set pieces like the lineout and scrum, where they provide a stable platform for the team to launch attacks. Locks are also involved in ball carries, where they use their size and strength to gain ground and create opportunities for their team.
What Do Locks Do in the Lineout?
In the lineout, locks are critical players. They usually form the core of the lineout, with one player lifting another to contest for the ball. They must have good jumping ability, timing, and coordination to be effective in this role.
What Do Locks Do in the Scrum?
In the scrum, locks are positioned in the second row, with the tight head prop on their right and the loose head prop on their left. They provide stability and power to the scrum, driving against the opposition to gain possession of the ball. They must have good strength, technique, and communication skills to be effective in this role.
What Do Locks Do at the Breakdown?
At the breakdown, locks play a supportive role to the flankers, helping to secure the ball and protect it from the opposition. They use their size and strength to clear out defenders and create space for their teammates.
What Makes a Good Lock?
A good lock player needs to be physically imposing, with excellent strength and size. However, this is not the only requirement for the position. Locks must also have good coordination, timing, and technique in set pieces like the lineout and scrum. They must be able to communicate effectively with their teammates and have good decision-making skills in both attack and defence. A good lock must also have a high work rate and be able to cover a lot of ground in general play.
Who Are The Best Locks in Rugby?
- Brodie Retallick (New Zealand) – Retallick is widely regarded as one of the best locks in the world and has been a key player for the All Blacks since his debut in 2012. He is known for his athleticism, work rate, and excellent skills in the lineout and scrum.
- Maro Itoje (England) – Itoje is a rising star in the world of rugby and has already made a name for himself as one of the top locks in the game. He is known for his physicality, excellent lineout skills, and leadership on and off the field.
- Alun Wyn Jones (Wales) – Jones is a veteran of the game and has been a key player for Wales for over a decade. He is known for his toughness, work rate, and leadership, and has a reputation as one of the best lineout jumpers in the game.
- Eben Etzebeth (South Africa) – Etzebeth is a powerful and physical lock who has been a key player for the Springboks since his debut in 2012. He is known for his lineout skills, hard tackles, and strong carries.
- James Ryan (Ireland) – Ryan is another rising star in the world of rugby and has already established himself as one of the top locks in the game. He is known for his athleticism, work rate, and excellent skills in the lineout and general play.
Conclusion
Locks are an integral part of rugby teams, providing a physical presence and stability in set pieces like the lineout and scrum. They have specific responsibilities in attack, defence, and general play, and must possess a range of skills to be effective in their roles.
FAQ
What is a lock in rugby? A lock in rugby is a forward position in the scrum and lineout. There are two locks in a rugby team, numbered four and five, and they typically stand behind the front row in the scrum and jump in the lineout to catch the ball.
How tall are locks in rugby? Locks in rugby are typically tall players, often standing over 6 feet 5 inches (196 cm) tall. However, height alone is not the only factor in determining a player’s suitability for the lock position.
How much do locks weigh in rugby? Locks in rugby are usually big and strong players, weighing between 230 and 260 pounds (104-118 kg), although this can vary depending on the player’s build and position on the team.
What do locks do in defense in rugby? In defense, locks are responsible for making tackles, providing support to other defenders, and disrupting the opposition’s lineout and scrum.
What do locks do in attack in rugby? In attack, locks can be used as ball carriers, providing physical presence and momentum to help drive the ball forward. They can also act as receivers in the lineout and provide support to other attacking players.
What do locks do in the lineout in rugby? In the lineout, locks are responsible for jumping to catch the ball, which is thrown in from the sideline. They work in coordination with the hooker and other forwards to secure the ball and create attacking opportunities.
What do locks do in the scrum in rugby? In the scrum, locks provide support and stability to the front row, helping to drive the scrum forward and win possession of the ball. They also act as the primary jumpers in the lineout.
What do locks do at the breakdown in rugby? At the breakdown, locks are responsible for securing the ball and providing support to the other forwards. They can also act as ball carriers or make tackles to disrupt the opposition’s play.
What makes a good lock in rugby? A good lock in rugby is typically tall, strong, and athletic, with good lineout and scrummaging skills. They should also be able to make tackles, provide support to their teammates, and work effectively in both attack and defense.
Who are some of the best locks in rugby? Some of the best locks in rugby include Brodie Retallick, Maro Itoje, Alun Wyn Jones, Eben Etzebeth, and James Ryan, among others.
