Rugby's 15 Positions Trivia Quiz

1 - Loosehead prop

This player lines up on the left side of the front row in the scrum. Their job is to help stabilize the scrum, support the hooker, and apply pressure against the opposing tighthead prop. Loosehead props are known for their strength and technique in close-contact situations, and they often contribute to short carries and defensive rucks.

Gethin Jenkins (Wales) - retired from playing in 2018

Jenkins was a cornerstone of the Welsh pack for over a decade, known for combining scrummaging power with surprising agility in open play. He represented Wales in over 120 matches and was a key figure in three Grand Slam-winning campaigns. His durability and work rate made him one of the most respected props in the modern era.

2 - Hooker

The hooker stands between the two props in the scrum and is responsible for retrieving the ball with their feet during the engagement. They also throw the ball in during lineouts and are involved in both attacking and defensive phases. Hookers need to be tough, accurate, and quick-thinking, often acting as a bridge between the forwards and backs.

Sean Fitzpatrick (New Zealand) - retired from playing in 1997

Fitzpatrick played a central role in New Zealand's dominance during the late 1980s and 1990s. As captain, he led the All Blacks with distinction and was part of the squad that won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. With over 90 international appearances, his leadership and consistency set a benchmark for future hookers.

3 - Tighthead prop

Positioned on the right side of the scrum, the tighthead prop faces intense physical pressure and must anchor the scrum against the opposing loosehead. Their role demands exceptional strength and technique to maintain stability. Outside of scrums, they are active in tackles, rucks, and short-yardage ball carries.

Adam Rhys Jones (Wales) - retired from playing in 2018

Jones was a vital part of Wales' front row during their successful runs in the 2000s. Renowned for his technical mastery in the scrum, he helped secure multiple Six Nations titles. His presence brought stability to the Welsh pack, and he earned nearly 100 caps for his country.

4 - Lock (second row)

Locks are typically the tallest players on the team, vital for winning lineouts and providing power in scrums. They jump to catch or contest lineout throws and are central to driving mauls. Their physicality also makes them key contributors in tackles and ball retention.

Paul O'Connell (Ireland) - retired from playing in 2016

O'Connell was a towering figure in Irish rugby, both physically and as a leader. He played over 100 times for Ireland and captained the national team and the British & Irish Lions. His dominance in lineouts and relentless work ethic made him a key contributor to Ireland's 2009 Grand Slam and other major victories.

5 - Lock (second row)

The second lock works in tandem with the first, often specializing in lifting teammates during lineouts or adding weight and drive in scrums. Together, they form the backbone of the forward pack and are instrumental in maintaining possession and applying pressure.

John Eales (Australia) - retired from playing in 2001

Eales was a rare blend of athleticism and intelligence, often contributing with goal-kicking despite playing in the second row. He captained Australia to World Cup glory in 1999 and was part of the winning squad in 1991. With 86 caps, his calm leadership and versatility earned him legendary status.

6 - Blindside flanker

Operating on the side of the scrum closest to the sideline, the blindside flanker is typically more robust and physical. Their main duties include tackling, contesting breakdowns, and supporting ball carriers. They are often tasked with shutting down opposition attacks and maintaining defensive structure.

Pieter Stephanus du Toit (South Africa)

Du Toit emerged as one of the most dominant forwards of his generation, combining physicality with tactical awareness. He was instrumental in South Africa's 2019 World Cup triumph and was named World Rugby Player of the Year that same season. His defensive prowess and ball-carrying ability make him a standout blindside flanker.

7 - Openside flanker

The openside flanker plays on the more open side of the field and is usually quicker and more agile. Their primary role is to disrupt the opposition at the breakdown, win turnovers, and chase the ball relentlessly. They are often among the most active players on the pitch.

Richie McCaw (New Zealand) - retired from playing in 2015

McCaw is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in rugby history. He captained the All Blacks to two World Cup titles and earned nearly 150 international caps. His mastery at the breakdown, unmatched endurance, and tactical intelligence defined the openside flanker role for a generation.

8 - Number 8

This player controls the ball at the back of the scrum and serves as a link between the forwards and backs. Number 8s are versatile, combining strength with mobility. They often initiate attacks, support runners, and contribute to both offensive and defensive phases.

Zinzan Brooke (New Zealand) retired from playing in 2003

Brooke brought flair and creativity to the number 8 position, often surprising opponents with his kicking and running skills. He played 58 times for New Zealand and scored 17 tries, a remarkable feat for a forward. His style helped redefine what a number 8 could contribute to the game.

9 - Scrum-half

The scrum-half is the team's main distributor, collecting the ball from scrums, rucks, and mauls and passing it to the backs. They set the pace of the game and make quick decisions, often using short kicks or sniping runs to exploit gaps in the defense.

Antoine Dupont (France)

Dupont quickly became one of the most influential players in world rugby. Known for his explosive speed and sharp decision-making, he was named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2021 and led France to a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2022. His ability to control the tempo makes him a standout scrum-half.

10 - Fly-half

As the tactical leader of the team, the fly-half decides how to shape the attack. They receive the ball from the scrum-half and choose whether to pass, kick, or run. Their vision, communication, and kicking ability are crucial for controlling territory and creating scoring opportunities.

Dan Carter (New Zealand) retired from playing in 2021

Carter is one of the most prolific point scorers in rugby history, with over 1,500 points in international play. He guided New Zealand to two World Cup victories (2011, 2015) and was named World Rugby Player of the Year three times (2005, 2012, 2015). His precision kicking and game management set the standard for fly-halves worldwide.

11 - Left wing

The left wing is positioned on the far left side of the field and is typically one of the fastest players. Their job is to finish attacking moves, chase kicks, and defend wide areas. They rely on speed and agility to break through defenses and score tries.

Jonah Lomu (New Zealand) retired from playing in 2007

Lomu revolutionized the wing position with his combination of size and speed. He burst onto the scene during the 1995 World Cup, scoring unforgettable tries and becoming a global icon. Despite a career shortened by illness, he scored 37 tries in 63 tests and left a lasting legacy.

12 - Inside centre

This player combines physical strength with ball-handling skills. They often act as a secondary playmaker or crash ball runner, helping to break defensive lines and support the fly-half. Inside centres are also key defenders in the midfield.

Ma'a Nonu (New Zealand)

Nonu has been a powerful and creative force in the midfield, earning over 100 caps for the All Blacks. He played a key role in their back-to-back World Cup wins in 2011 and 2015. His ability to break tackles and distribute the ball made him a vital part of New Zealand's attacking structure.

13 - Outside centre

The outside centre is usually more agile and focused on exploiting space. They link with the wings and look for opportunities to break through the defense. Their role requires quick decision-making, strong tackling, and the ability to read the game effectively.

Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland) retired from playing in 2014

O'Driscoll retired as Ireland's most capped player and one of the finest centres in rugby history. He scored 46 international tries and captained Ireland to a Grand Slam in 2009. His defensive skills, vision, and leadership made him a consistent threat and a respected figure across the rugby world.

14 - Right wing

Similar to the left wing, the right wing uses speed and positioning to finish plays and defend the wide channel. They are responsible for chasing kicks, fielding high balls, and engaging in one-on-one situations with opposing backs.

Cheslin Kolbe (South Africa)

Kolbe is known for his dazzling footwork and acceleration. He played a crucial role in South Africa's 2019 World Cup win, including a memorable try in the final. His agility and ability to evade defenders make him one of the most exciting wingers in the game.

15 - Fullback

The fullback plays deep behind the main defensive line and is the last line of defense. They field kicks, launch counter-attacks, and support the wings. A good fullback combines safe hands, tactical awareness, and strong running to turn defense into attack.

Serge Blanco (France) retired from playing in 1992

Blanco was a graceful and attacking fullback who played nearly 100 times for France. He was known for his counter-attacking brilliance and scored 38 tries in international play. His flair and creativity helped France reach the 1987 World Cup final and inspired generations of backs.