Blindside Flanker: Role, Skills & Tactics

When talking about blindside flanker, the forward who packs down on the side of the scrum opposite the openside, focusing on defense, ball carrying and tackling, also known as number 6, it sits squarely inside rugby union. In this code, the blindside flanker blindside flanker provides the bridge between set‑piece work and open‑play aggression. The position scrum influences where the flanker lines up, dictating his initial defensive angle and space‑cover duties.

The blindside flanker’s primary job is to shut down the opposition’s short side. That means packing the blindside of the scrum, then charging into the first tackle area to stop quick ball. Because the blindside is usually tighter, the flanker must excel at close‑quarters hustle, win‑breakdowns, and supporting the ball carrier. This role requires a blend of raw power and disciplined positioning, a mix you’ll see mentioned in many of our rugby‑focused articles.

Physical attributes matter a lot. A blindside flanker typically weighs between 105‑115 kg, with a strong core and explosive leg drive for both scrummaging and rucking. Sprint speed isn’t the priority; instead, it’s the ability to generate force in short bursts. These traits link directly to the fitness pieces covered in our training guides, where we break down strength circuits tailored for high‑impact forwards.

Beyond raw strength, the blindside flanker needs game intelligence. Reading the opponent’s lineout calls, anticipating the ball’s destination, and adjusting positioning on the fly are all part of the job. This decision‑making ties into broader rugby tactics, especially defensive patterns and turnover strategies that we explore in depth across the site.

Key Responsibilities of a Blindside Flanker

First, the flanker must dominate the breakdown. After a tackle, they arrive fast, secure the ball, and either clear it or contest possession. Second, they support the lineout by either lifting teammates or acting as a jumper, ensuring the team retains continuity. Third, they act as a secondary ball carrier, taking the hit‑up when the primary runners need relief. Each task feeds into the overall team structure, showing how the blindside flanker connects set‑piece stability with open‑play dynamism.

Team dynamics also shape the blindside flanker’s role. When the openside flanker focuses on stealing the ball at the breakdown, the blindside often covers the defensive edge, preventing the opposition from exploiting the short side. This partnership creates a balanced midfield defense that many coaches cite as a cornerstone of successful campaigns.

Injury prevention is another practical angle. Because blindside flankers are constantly in the thick of contact, proper conditioning and recovery protocols are essential. Our posts on strength training and mobility drills give specific suggestions for reducing shoulder, knee, and neck strain, which are common issues for players in this demanding position.

From a strategic perspective, the blindside flanker can be a game‑changer in set‑piece scenarios. During a scrum, the flanker’s push adds stability and helps drive the pack forward, while their positioning can open up attacking channels for the backline. This link between scrum mechanics and open‑play opportunities is a recurring theme in our tactical breakdowns.

Whether you’re a budding player, a coach looking for drill ideas, or a fan trying to understand why the number 6 is so vital, the blindside flanker offers a blend of brute force and strategic nuance. Below you’ll find a curated set of articles that dive deeper into the skills, training methods, and tactical insights that surround this pivotal role, giving you a well‑rounded view of what makes a great blindside flanker.