Position.

Question
I had stopped playing Rugby Union for a while, and when i returned i have found it difficult to secure a position in my squad. I play primarily as a Number Eight, but in the past i have played at both Second Row and Flanker.

Being 6ft1 inches tall, 13 stone, physically fit and mentally strong im trying to win back my role of 8. But do you think i should focus on my handling skills: which have dropped considerably before i go for this role?

I can still play at Lock, but i find it irritable; because i feel more focused on a set role of winning scrums and i am not a lineout jumper, so im not doing one of the vital roles their. But i was just think what does a coach look for in a number 8.

Can i be given a fitness level to reach: as i reach level 9 on the bleep test. Also should i reach a certain level on the strength test, and is their something i could do to improve my sprinting.

Regards Chaz.

Answer
Hi Chaz,

Ball skills are alwys a must in being considered for any position especially #8. I would say that as a coach the most important thing to see in a #8 is the ability to break the line with ball in hand. Beat 1 or 2 tackles ate least and still be able to off load a quality pass or set up a quick clean maull or at worst a ruck.

A coach is going to look at your smarts with regards to running the ball off the back of the scrum, or linking up with the half back.

Also these days you are basically a 3rd flanker with a lot of importance on ball carrier support. So you need to be fast to keep in pace with your backs and to be running good lines when they are wanting to pass out of the tackle.

On defence you need to be one of the guys stopping the other #8 from making runs and from any crash ball from the centers. Getting to the breakdown fist and either stealing the ball or clearing our opposition players is key as well.

In the lineout you might be able to get away with cleaning up over throws from your hooker or on the opposition throw if you have good jumpers.

You may want to consider blind side flanker if you find you are not making the big impact runs that are required of the #8 in games.

As for fitness - you know what is needed and you can never be too fit. Don't forget speed over 10 -15 yard though. Sets of short sprints to work on explosive power are a good idea. Up hill or with a team mate holding your jersey.